The video was taken at a game in December, the woman who posted it told WFAA. It has gained traction online in recent days.
DALLAS — American Airlines Center management said it is conducting an internal investigation after a viral video posted online appears to show Dallas Stars fans making a Nazi salute after the team scored goals in a game in December.
The video, which has gained traction online in recent days, was taken at a December 21 game against the Toronto Maple Leafs, said Courtney Ripley, the fan who took it.
“It was shocking,” she said. “It was every goal they were doing it.”
She said during the course of the 5-1 Stars win, it was clear to her that this gesture was distinctly different than the fist pump motion Stars fans traditionally make following goals.
Ripley said she reported them to the arena’s fan misbehavior hotline and was told a staff member had come to the location to speak with the fans — but said they couldn’t find them. Ripley said she sent the AAC their seat numbers and the video she took, but never saw someone with the AAC approach the men.
“Kind of disappointing on that front too,” she said.
The NHL didn’t respond to a request for comment. A Stars spokesperson also declined to comment and instead referred WFAA to American Airlines Center management, which said in a statement:
American Airlines Center (AAC) has zero tolerance for any acts of hate and/or discrimination, and we aim to ensure an environment for our guests that is free from disruptive behavior, including foul/abusive language and obscene gestures.
As such, we strongly denounce the actions that appear to be depicted in the video footage and are conducting an internal investigation. All fans and attendees are expected to adhere to AAC and, as applicable, NBA or NHL Codes of Conduct when attending events.
Guests who violate any such Code of Conduct may be subject to ejection from the event without refund and, to the extent their conduct constitutes a violation of applicable law, prosecution.
“I would be happy if they banned these four men from going to the AAC again,” Ripley said. “I just don’t think behavior like that is okay or acceptable.”