Dallas Arena Investigating Four Fans for Apparent Nazi Salute During December Game

The American Airlines Center has opened an investigation into four Dallas Stars fans who appeared to perform a Nazi salute during a December 21 game against the Toronto Maple Leafs. A 12-second video clip from Dallas' 5-1 win shows the four fans raising and extending their right arms with a straightened right hand facing downward while celebrating a goal. The footage, captured months ago, went viral this week across social media platforms.

Arena's Zero-Tolerance Response

The American Airlines Center came down hard on Wednesday with a statement making its position crystal clear. "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 behaviors, including foul/abusive language and obscene gestures," the arena said.

The arena strongly denounced the actions in the video and launched an internal investigation. According to the statement, any guests who violate the Code of Conduct face potential ejection without refund, and their conduct could result in legal prosecution if it violates applicable law.

League-Wide Standards on Fan Conduct

The NHL takes fan conduct seriously across the board. Every team uses video boards and public address announcements to remind fans about their codes of conduct before games. The league's multipoint fan code opens with a simple message: "The best hockey experiences happen in environments that are inclusive, safe and respectful."

The NHL's inclusion section is explicit: "Language, gestures, behavior, clothing, signs, or other personal expressions that negatively reference or demean a specific race, ethnicity, gender/gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, disability status, or other identity-based characteristic will not be tolerated." The conduct is strictly prohibited whether it references individuals or groups. Violations can result in ejection, suspension, or a lifetime ban from future events.

A Stars spokesperson told ESPN on Thursday that the team is "fully aligned with the arena's statement and working with them to find out exactly what happened."

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.