LAS CRUCES, N.M. — New Mexico State University (NMSU) is intensifying security measures ahead of the highly anticipated I-25 rivalry game against the University of New Mexico (UNM) this Saturday at Aggie Memorial Stadium. This matchup marks the first meeting between the two institutions since the tragic shooting death of a UNM student on campus in 2022.
In an exclusive interview with KFOX14/CBS4, NMSU’s Interim Chief of Police Justin Dunivan outlined the collaborative safety efforts that will be in place. “The Las Cruces Police Department, the Sheriff’s Department, and State Police, alongside local agencies, will be providing assistance for this event,” Dunivan confirmed.
UNM officers will also be present in Las Cruces for the game, establishing direct communication with NMSU officers to enhance coordination. “They will have direct contact with my officers,” Dunivan noted.
In addition to increased law enforcement presence, NMSU will deploy additional surveillance equipment and implement improved barriers between the student sections to prevent altercations like those experienced during the 2022 game. During that incident, a brawl between students from both universities led to the tragic death of UNM student Brandon Travis just a month after the basketball rivalry.
To further minimize potential conflict, Dunivan announced that students from each university will have designated entry points at the stadium. “We’re introducing a proactive initiative to ensure that UNM students enter at specific locations,” he explained, adding that a detailed map will be distributed shortly. UNM attendees will access the venue from the northwest or southeast sides, while NMSU students will continue using their usual northeast entrance.
While students at NMSU express excitement for the rivalry, some voice concerns over the sufficiency of the safety measures. “With so many hyped-up people, conflict is kind of unavoidable,” one student commented. Another added, “It’s a rivalry. Something’s bound to happen. Hopefully, everyone stays safe.”
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