Baton Rouge, LA, October 17, 2025
News Summary
In response to a rise in campus violence, Louisiana State University (LSU) has announced stringent security measures ahead of upcoming football games. Notably, Unity Field will close to tailgaters, and vehicle access on Highland Road will be restricted to those with valid parking permits. Enhanced law enforcement presence and increased surveillance, including drones, will be deployed to ensure safety. These measures are a response to recent violent incidents during games, aiming to provide a secure environment for families and fans attending LSU events.
BATON ROUGE, LA – In response to a recent surge in campus violence, Louisiana State University (LSU) has announced stringent security measures ahead of the upcoming football games, specifically marking the LSU vs. Louisiana Tech game scheduled for September 6, 2025. These heightened security protocols aim to create a safer environment for all attendees and will feature a closure of popular tailgating areas and restrictions on vehicle access.
Specifically, Unity Field, located at the northeast corner of South Stadium Drive and Highland Road, will be closed to tailgaters. This decision highlights LSU’s commitment to mitigating incidents of violence, as recent events have raised safety concerns among fans and families attending home games. These measures come on the heels of two alarming incidents during previous games; two individuals were hospitalized following a shooting on campus during the game against South Carolina, and another shooting occurred outside the Law Center during the LSU game against the University of Florida.
In further efforts to enhance safety, vehicle access along Highland Road will be restricted to drivers who possess valid parking permits. Increased law enforcement personnel will be present at the games, with the university’s regular police force—traditionally consisting of 60 officers—able to expand to over 400 through partnerships with local and state agencies on game days. Additionally, more surveillance technology will be deployed, including the use of drones.
Interim LSU President Matt Lee indicated that the closure of Unity Field is a direct response to the tailgating-related incidents, particularly those linked to a specific unnamed student organization that had failed to submit the proper application for holding game day events. This organization has come under scrutiny for contributing to large crowds and illegal activities at the tailgating site and is currently facing disciplinary action.
In a continued effort to maintain order, LSU plans to strictly enforce rules against illegal activities, including marijuana use, underage drinking, the carrying of firearms, and excessive noise levels from music. Individuals found smoking marijuana will be detained, while those possessing illegal quantities will face arrest.
The university’s new initiatives have gained support from Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry, who has called for increased security measures ahead of LSU’s next significant matchup against Texas A&M on October 25, 2025. The LSU Board of Supervisors Chair noted that the governor is involved in the discussions surrounding these security enhancements.
Concerns over safety due to campus violence have also extended to Southern University, which announced plans to bolster its campus security measures following LSU’s announcements. Southern University plans to add more license plate readers, install surveillance drones, and improve campus checkpoint areas, preparing for heightened safety, especially in light of recent racial threats against historically Black colleges and universities.
Families attending LSU games are increasingly expressing their desire for a premier game day experience that is free from violence and illegal activities. As a response to these growing concerns and the “overall sense of disorder” witnessed at recent games, LSU’s new security measures aim to foster a safer and more enjoyable environment for all.
Key Security Measures for Upcoming LSU Football Games:
- Closure of Unity Field for tailgating
- Restricted access on Highland Road for vehicles without parking permits
- Increased on-site law enforcement presence—expanding to over 400 officers
- Deployment of additional surveillance technology, including drones
- Intensified enforcement against illegal activities and disturbances
Background Context
Recent violent incidents during football games at LSU have prompted the university to take action. The heightened security measures aim to provide a safer atmosphere during the 2025 football season. Prior incidents, including shootings and reports of unsafe behavior among large crowds, have raised alarms about the safety of fans, especially families.
Meanwhile, Southern University is also enhancing security in response to similar concerns about racial threats and overall safety on campus. The installation of new “Blue Light” devices for contacting police is part of their proactive approach to ensuring student safety.
FAQ Section
What security measures is LSU implementing for football games?
LSU announced increased security measures for football games due to a rise in campus violence, including the closure of Unity Field, restricted Highland Road access for drivers without parking permits, and an increased law enforcement presence.
Why was Unity Field closed to tailgaters?
Interim LSU President Matt Lee identified the closure of Unity Field as a measure against the tailgating-related incidents and mentioned that recent shootings were traced back to this location.
How has campus violence affected families attending LSU games?
Families have expressed concern about safety, wanting a premier game day experience free from violence and drug use.
What actions are being taken by Southern University in response to safety concerns?
Southern University announced plans to tighten campus security following LSU’s announcement, including adding more license plate readers and surveillance drones.
Key Features of the LSU Security Measures
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Unity Field Closure | Tailgating area closed to mitigate violence |
| Restricted Vehicle Access | Highland Road restricted to drivers with parking permits |
| Increased Law Enforcement Presence | Personnel expanded from 60 to over 400 officers on game days |
| Surveillance Technology | Deployment of drones and additional surveillance equipment |
| Enforcement of Rules | Strict measures against illegal activities at games |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Speaker of the House Mike Johnson Addresses Local Business Concerns
Burglary at Chuck Wagon Crawfish Shakes Shreveport Community
Shreveport Business Offers Reward After Late-Night Burglary
Mike Johnson Addresses Business Leaders in Bossier City
Burglary at Chuck Wagon Crawfish Raises Alarm in Shreveport
Shreveport Job Fair Provides Local Employment Opportunities
Additional Resources
- The Daily Reveille
- Unfiltered with Kiran
- The Advocate
- Style Blueprint
- WAFB
- Wikipedia: Louisiana State University
- Google Search: LSU football gameday security
- Google Scholar: LSU campus violence
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Louisiana State University
- Google News: LSU football games security measures
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The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
