Mass hysteria gripped America’s largest cheerleading event when false reports of an active shooter sent thousands fleeing in panic. The incident offers a sobering glimpse into how quickly misinformation can spread and the real-world consequences when fear takes over.
At a Glance
- A fight between two individuals at a national cheerleading championship in Dallas caused poles to collapse, creating loud noises mistaken for gunshots
- The incident sparked mass panic among 58,000 attendees, including over 30,000 cheerleaders from 43 states and nine countries
- Ten people were hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries from the resulting stampede
- Dallas Police confirmed no shooting occurred at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center
- Competition resumed the following day after officials established a reunification center for separated families
Fight Sparks False Alarm and Chaos
What began as a standard competitive event quickly descended into chaos at the 2025 NCA All-Star National Championship in Dallas when a physical altercation between two attendees triggered panic throughout the venue. The fight caused several metal poles to come crashing down, creating loud noises that many mistook for gunfire in the crowded Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center.
The championship, considered the largest and final competition of the cheerleading season, drew over 58,000 people for the three-day event, including more than 30,000 cheerleaders representing 43 states and nine countries. Many families had traveled considerable distances to attend what should have been a festive celebration of athletic achievement.
Eyewitness accounts describe a scene of absolute panic as word of a possible active shooter spread throughout the massive convention center. Parents and cheerleaders alike sought immediate shelter, hiding behind tables and chairs, while others fled into the streets of downtown Dallas or sought refuge in nearby hotels and businesses.
“The preliminary investigation determined a fight between two people led to multiple poles being knocked down, which caused a loud noise. This noise contributed to panic inside the building, prompting people to rush outside in a stampede,” the Dallas Police Department said.
The adjacent Omni Hotel was evacuated as a precaution, adding to the confusion as thousands of people streamed into the surrounding area. Video footage captured the chaotic scenes of people running through the streets while police officers rushed toward the convention center, responding to what they initially believed might be an active shooter situation.
No Shooter, But Real Injuries
Dallas Police quickly investigated and confirmed there was no active shooter present.
“We can confirm that there was no active shooter at the Kay Bailey Hutchinson Convention Center,” Dallas police said.
However, the damage had already been done as the stampede resulted in multiple injuries among attendees attempting to escape what they believed was immediate danger.
“There were multiple life-threatening injuries during the chaos. No shooting occurred,” Dallas Police Department said.
Ten people were hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries, primarily consisting of bumps, bruises, and fractures sustained during the rush to exit the building. First responders worked efficiently to treat the injured and establish order amid the confusion. A reunification center was quickly established at Dallas Police Department headquarters to help separated families locate one another.
What is wrong with people, seriously?
