Local venue managers talk about security protocols after Manchester attack

With the Manchester attack still fresh on everyone’s mind ABC-7 reached out to special event coordinators to ask what they’ve done to beef up security in their venues.

In this day and age when most people go to events, it’s in the back of their mind an attack is possible.

ABC-7 spoke with the man that runs the El Paso County Coliseum and he says security must be of the upmost importance for event organizers and more now than ever..

Yells heard in the video of the recent Manchester attack are chilling. The crowd mostly young girls and it’s a reminder of how terroristic attacks can happen anywhere.

“To say we aren’t aware, we are aware, always, that we need to keep our eyes open and our ears open,” said Brian Kennedy.

Kennedy is CEO of the El Paso Sports Commission and he runs the El Paso County Coliseum.

Kennedy has provided security for Prince — Rod Stewart and is also a security advisor for out-of-town venues.

“I’ve spent some time being a security consultant for sporting events, large sporting events, small sporting events and I think it’s something you never stop learning,” Kennedy said.

Three years ago, Kennedy decided to beef up security at the county coliseum which also hosted a Ariana Grande concert in 2015.

“Our cameras do cover 360 degrees in the main bowl and down all the hallways,” Kennedy told ABC-7.

Cameras also surround the building outside and it doesn’t stop there.

“We purchased walk-through medal detectors,” Kennedy said.

The University of Texas at El Paso has also played host to large artists like One Direction. ABC-7 asked them about there security details and they sent us this statement:

“Every event has a basic security plan based on specific production and logistical elements. When we alter either add or modify security protocols is based on expected attendance, event type, demographics and prior history in like-events. We ensure that every event is safe and enjoyable for our fans. But ultimately it is the cooperation and patience of our patrons when undergoing security checks that allow us to do our job of ensuring a safe event successfully.” said UTEP special events executive director Jorge Vasquez.

Kennedy feels the recent terroristic attacks will change the shape of security at large events.

“You’re going to see or not see plainclothes officers walking among the cars and walking with people just to make sure people are making it to their cars and heading home,” Kennedy said.

The Department of Public Safety set up a website called IWATCH where you can report any suspicious activity.

Here is the link https://iwatchtx.org