Kansas City Chiefs offensive lineman Trey Smith spoke out on Thursday about the tragic shooting that occurred during the team’s Super Bowl parade. Smith, along with his teammates, was caught off guard by the active shooter situation as they were leaving the stage at Union Station. The lineman revealed that they were hurriedly ushered through the doors by security guards who emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, “This is not a joke. It’s a life and death situation.”
Smith and a teammate sought shelter in a closet, where they found themselves alongside approximately 20 other individuals. In an act of bravery, Smith pulled a frightened child into the closet with him, ensuring his safety. Once it was deemed safe, Smith and the others made their way to the Chiefs’ team buses, which were also filled with bystanders. It was during this chaotic moment that Smith encountered a young fan who was visibly distressed. In an effort to comfort the child, Smith handed him the WWE belt he had been carrying throughout the parade, assuring him that he was safe and protected.
Throughout the ordeal, Smith and long snapper James Winchester played a crucial role in keeping those around them as calm as possible. However, the tragic consequences of the shooting were undeniable. Nine children were injured, and Lisa Lopez-Galvan, a mother of two and a local DJ, tragically lost her life during surgery after sustaining a gunshot wound to the abdomen.
Expressing his anger and sorrow, Smith emphasized the impact of senseless violence on the affected families and the city of Kansas City as a whole. The Super Bowl victory celebration, intended to be a joyous occasion, was marred by this tragic event.
