Investigation underway over apparent Nazi salute at Stars game

A viral video from a Dallas Stars home game against the Toronto Maple Leafs in December has prompted an internal investigation by American Airlines Center officials.

The clip, between 12 and 18 seconds long in various edited versions, shows a small group of fans in the upper deck appearing to perform a Nazi salute in unison while celebrating goals to the rhythm of the team’s goal song, “Puck off” by Pantera.

Dallas won the contest 5-1.

The video first appeared on Reddit (since deleted) before circulating widely on social media platforms this week, drawing widespread attention months after the incident.

American Airlines Center issued a statement emphasizing its zero-tolerance policy for acts of hate or discrimination. Officials strongly denounced the depicted actions and confirmed they are conducting an investigation.

The arena stressed that all attendees must follow its code of conduct and NHL guidelines, which prohibit gestures demeaning any race, ethnicity, or identity-based characteristic. Violations may result in ejection without refund or legal prosecution.

“American Airlines Arena (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 in a statement, via the Dallas Morning News. “As such, we strongly denounce the actions that appear to be depicted in the video footage and are conducting an internal investigation. All fans and attendees are expected to adhere to AAC and, as applicable, NBA or NHL Codes of Conduct when attending events.

“Guests who violate any such Code of Conduct may be subject to ejection from the event without refund and, to the extent their conduct constitutes a violation of applicable law, prosecution.”

A Dallas Stars spokesperson indicated the team is aligned with the arena and collaborating on the matter.

“Fully aligned with the arena’s statement and working with them to find out exactly what happened,” they told ESPN.

The NHL’s fan code of conduct promotes inclusive, safe, and respectful environments, with potential penalties ranging from seat relocation to lifetime bans.

The individual who recorded the video reported the fans to arena management with seat details, but was told staff could not locate them at the time.