Falcons Fan Arrested Before Panthers Game After Armed Threat Outside Mercedes Benz Stadium

Atlanta, GA – November 16, 2025

At approximately 9:45 a.m., just hours before the kickoff between the Carolina Panthers and Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes Benz Stadium, an Atlanta Falcons fan was arrested after allegedly making armed threats toward Panthers supporters in a tailgate area near the stadium.

According to the Atlanta Police Department, the suspect has been identified as Daniel Royce Carter, 29, of Marietta, Georgia. Carter now faces multiple charges including menacing with a weapon, second degree assault, criminal possession of a firearm, and disorderly conduct.

The incident occurred in Lot B of the stadium’s parking structure, where Panthers fans had gathered for early tailgating festivities. Witnesses reported that Carter, wearing a No. 11 Drake London jersey, became involved in a heated verbal exchange with a group of Carolina supporters before allegedly brandishing a firearm and issuing direct threats.

Stadium security personnel responded immediately, subduing the suspect within seconds. Upon arrival, police officers recovered a Glock 19 pistol loaded with a full magazine, along with a second magazine stored in the glove compartment of Carter’s vehicle.

Fortunately, no shots were fired and no injuries were reported. Police briefly locked down several sections of the tailgating area while they reviewed security footage and conducted witness interviews. The area was reopened by 10:30 a.m.

An official statement from the Atlanta Police Department read:

“The swift action taken by stadium security and responding officers prevented a potentially tragic outcome. Their coordination and professionalism helped ensure the safety of fans ahead of today’s game.”

In the wake of the incident, Mercedes Benz Stadium implemented heightened security measures, including expanded bag checks, additional metal detector screenings, and an increased presence of patrol officers throughout the stadium perimeter.

Despite the disturbing pregame episode, the Falcons vs Panthers matchup remains scheduled to kick off at 1:00 PM ET, though the mood around the stadium has shifted from celebratory to cautious.