President Rousse Addresses Game Day Safety

BATON ROUGE – As a result of unauthorized organized gatherings as well as disruptive behavior near the Enchanted Forest, Pentagon and Greek Theater after Homecoming, LSU President Wade Rousse is announcing immediate game day safety improvements. The changes are designed to ensure LSU provides an environment that is safe and enjoyable for our students, alumni, families and visitors while preserving traditional tailgating experiences that make our game day atmosphere one-of-a-kind nationally. 

“I want to be clear that the behavior I witnessed this weekend is unacceptable and does not reflect the excellence that LSU strives to demonstrate in all we do,” said President Rousse. “Everyone attending an LSU football game should be able to enjoy the traditions that make Tiger fans proud. Gatherings that create challenges involving crowd control, disorderly conduct, pedestrian safety and emergency response cannot be accommodated. Safety takes priority.” 

LSU’s Division of Campus Safety, in coordination with LSU Police, Office of Emergency Preparedness, Student Affairs, Parking and Transportation and other University and Law Enforcement stakeholders have been directed to implement the following plans to address emerging concerns: 

Enhanced Security Presence and Crowd Management: Enhancing foot and mobile patrols, focused monitoring of known gathering locations, and coordinated response capabilities with local law enforcement partners. Particular attention will be given to locations where large gatherings have historically developed and where pedestrian movement may be affected.

Management of Large Gatherings and Unauthorized Events: Establishing CLEAR distinctions between traditional tailgating and large-scale organized gatherings with DJ’s and live bands that set up during and after game time which are strictly prohibited. Student tailgates (including Greeks) must conclude one hour prior to kick off in accordance with University policy.

Consistent Enforcement of University Policies: Enforcing all applicable laws and University policies regarding illegal drug activity, fighting, threatening behavior, and disorderly conduct. These expectations apply to everyone on campus, regardless of their affiliation with the University. Individuals who engage in unlawful or dangerous behavior may face removal from campus, University disciplinary action where applicable, or criminal enforcement. 

Pedestrian Safety: Maintaining safe and accessible routes for students, families and fans by evaluating pedestrian routes, vehicle restrictions, emergency access corridors, and the management of large gatherings that may interfere with the safe movement of people.

Reporting and Communication: Evaluating opportunities to improve game-day communication, including greater promotion of reporting resources and the use of University communication platforms to provide timely safety information. Anyone who observes threatening behavior, fighting, suspected criminal activity, or other safety concerns should immediately call LSU Police at 225-578-3231 or 911 in an emergency. 

“Our objective is not to diminish the tailgating traditions that make LSU special,” emphasized Rousse. “We will preserve those traditions while ensuring activities conducted on our campus are done so responsibly, appropriately and with accountability. I recognize that large, uncontrolled crowds and disruptive behavior can negatively impact an otherwise enjoyable experience for fans, and that has to stop, now. The overwhelming majority of our visitors to campus simply want to enjoy LSU with their family and friends and we are committed to  enforcing that standard.”