HORN LAKE, Miss. — After multiple shootings during homecoming weekend across Mississippi, state school officials are urging high schools to temporarily ban or limit tailgating activities on campus.
Rickey Neaves, Executive Director of the Mississippi High School Activities Association (MHSAA), said the recommendation follows a troubling rise in violence linked to school and college celebrations.
“We highly recommend that schools stop hosting tailgates on school property for now,” Neaves said. “All these incidents seem to stem from tailgating events, and our legal team advised us to pause them for safety reasons.”
Violence Prompts Calls for Action
The decision follows a weekend of tragedy across the state:
- Six people were killed during a mass shooting in Leland on Friday night.
- One person died in a shooting at Alcorn State University the next day.
- In Jackson, a child was injured after being shot near a football stadium.
Neaves said the MHSAA’s primary concern is the safety of students, families, and fans attending homecoming and football events.
Mixed Reactions from Residents
Mississippi residents expressed divided opinions over the proposed tailgate ban.
“I 100% agree. It’s gotten out of hand,” said Phyllis Sanders, a local resident.
However, others disagreed with the move.
“I don’t agree at all,” said Kenyon Truehill. “Tailgating isn’t the cause—people’s actions are. That’s like saying we should ban schools because of school shootings.”
Focus on Safety and Prevention
While some schools may continue to allow tailgating, Neaves emphasized that strict security measures must be in place.
“If tailgates happen, they must be supervised by school personnel or law enforcement,” he said. “Schools need to monitor what’s being brought into those areas.”
Residents also suggested metal detectors, stronger crowd control, and better sportsmanship among fans as ways to reduce violence at athletic events.
A Pause for Reflection
The MHSAA’s recommendation signals a statewide effort to reevaluate safety protocols at school events. Officials hope the temporary pause on tailgates will allow schools to plan safer environments for future celebrations while preventing further violence.
