Dallas Cheer Competition Chaos: Fight Leads to Panic at Convention Center

DALLAS, Texas — A fight between two individuals led to a chaotic evacuation at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center on Saturday during the NCA All-Star National Championship. The incident, which occurred around 1 p.m. local time, sent families and cheerleaders fleeing in panic, resulting in multiple injuries.

According to Dallas police, the altercation caused multiple poles to fall, creating loud noises that prompted attendees to rush outside in what witnesses described as a stampede. Authorities quickly assured the public that there was no active shooter, which had initially fueled fears among families at the event.

“Earlier today, the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center was evacuated as a precaution based on reports of a safety concern,” stated a representative from Varsity Brands, the organization overseeing the competition. “NCA security officials immediately began working with the Dallas Police Department to quickly investigate.”

Despite the chaos, Dallas Fire-Rescue officials reported that the injuries sustained were not life-threatening, with ten individuals transported to local hospitals for treatment of ailments ranging from bumps and bruises to fractured extremities.

Witnesses described alarming scenes inside the convention center as the situation unfolded. Autumn Holub, a 14-year-old cheerleader, recounted, “It was mass pandemonium. Everyone was running in all directions. I got pushed into a corner, fell, and thought I was going to pass out.”

Parents also expressed their fear and concern for their children amidst the chaos. David Crawford, a parent, said, “It’s what we see on the news every day, but to actually live it is horrifying. Until you hear your child’s safe, you’re fearful.” His daughter, Brynn, later stated, “I was really excited and just ran to my dad and gave him a really big hug. I was just so relieved.”

Tricia Robleto, whose daughter’s cheer squad had flown in from San Diego, shared her unease while evacuating from her Omni Hotel room nearby. “You don’t know what you’re coming upon,” she said, acknowledging the disappointment for her daughter who had not yet performed.

As the dust settled, authorities confirmed that there were no arrests made in connection to the fight. The NCA event organizers decided to suspend evening activities but planned to resume the competition on Sunday with a revised schedule.

In a statement, the National Cheerleaders Association expressed gratitude towards law enforcement for their prompt response: “We want to thank the Dallas Police Department for their help assessing and controlling the situation, as well as the first responders who assisted those impacted.”

Following the incident, a designated family reunification center was established for those looking to locate and retrieve personal belongings left behind in the rush. The situation was deemed under control by authorities, allowing families to eventually retrieve their items later in the evening.

As Dallas police continue to investigate the original incident that led to the panic, the city has reminded attendees to remain cautious. “Please avoid this area,” an official statement read, while affirming public safety would be prioritized during the continuation of the cheer competition.

While attendees are eager to witness the remaining performances, many families are left reflecting on the day’s frightening events and the importance of safety.