Large Piece of Metal Falls from AT&T Stadium Roof Prior to Texans-Cowboys Game
ARLINGTON, Texas – A large piece of metal fell from the roof of AT&T Stadium prior to the Week 14 matchup between the Houston Texans and Dallas Cowboys, sending fans scrambling for cover.
Incident Details
The incident occurred approximately two hours before kickoff, as thousands of fans were entering the stadium. According to witnesses, a roughly 4-foot by 8-foot piece of metal detached from the stadium’s retractable roof and plummeted to the ground.
No injuries were reported, but the falling debris caused panic among fans. Security personnel quickly cordoned off the area and evacuated the affected section of the stadium.
Stadium Inspection and Repairs
Stadium officials immediately initiated an inspection of the roof and suspended further fan entry until the situation could be resolved. Engineers and maintenance crews worked diligently to assess the damage and make necessary repairs.
After a thorough investigation, the stadium was deemed safe for fans to enter. The repairs were completed in time for the game to proceed on schedule, albeit with a slightly delayed start.
Background and Context
AT&T Stadium, which opened in 2009, is one of the most technologically advanced stadiums in the world. Its retractable roof is a signature feature, allowing for both indoor and outdoor events.
Stadium maintenance and safety are paramount for the NFL. All stadiums are subject to regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety of fans and players.
Player and Fan Reactions
Texans quarterback Davis Mills expressed concern about the incident but was relieved that no one was injured.
“It’s scary to think that something like that could happen,” Mills said. “But the stadium staff did a great job of handling the situation and making sure everyone was safe.”
Cowboys fans were shaken by the incident but remained optimistic about the game ahead.
“It was definitely a scary moment,” said Cowboys fan John Smith. “But I’m glad they got it fixed and we can still enjoy the game.”
League Response
The NFL released a statement following the incident, commending the stadium staff’s response and emphasizing the importance of fan safety.
“The safety of our fans is our top priority,” the statement read. “We are grateful that no one was injured in this incident and that the stadium was able to reopen in a timely manner.”
Conclusion
The falling metal incident at AT&T Stadium was a reminder of the importance of stadium maintenance and safety. While such events are rare, they underscore the need for constant vigilance to ensure the well-being of fans and players.
The Texans and Cowboys eventually faced off in a thrilling game, with the Cowboys emerging victorious. However, the incident served as a sobering reminder that even in the midst of a highly anticipated matchup, safety must always come first.