FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Three little girls who were separated from their parents when chaos broke out at a cheer competition found comfort in South Florida coaches who stepped into action.
Parents and children at the Dallas, Texas 2025 NCA National Championship feared a shooting or active shooting had taken place inside the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center.
Competitive All-Star team members from Fort Lauderdale’s Triple Threat teams for safety on Saturday.
Harold Williams, the program director for the team, said he ran outside with members of the team.
“They yelled gun so then my immediate reaction was to grab my athletes,” said Williams.
Myra Sanders, a co-owner, said she along with another parent came across three young girls who were lost between the droves of parents and children running in every direction.
Ashley Lunkenheimer‘s daughter was one of the three girls found in the parking lot hiding under a semi-trailer when they were found by the team members. Her teams competes with Divinity Athletics in Derby, Kansas.
“I can never thank the coach enough for getting me my girl and giving her peace. You will always hold a place in my heart. Thank you,” said Lunkenheimer.
“The commotion began after parents were fighting,” said Sanders.
Police said the commotion led people to believe a shooting had taken place.
Parents said it was scary to think someone may have had a gun inside.
“It was scary not knowing where you grandchild is at. Not knowing exactly what is going on.
The parents, coaches and athletes are still shaken up over the situation.
“It was a very traumatic experience,” said Williams.
Dallas police have not made any arrests related to the situation but have said it is still under investigation.