Calls Grow for Police Patrols in Red River District After Weekend Incident

Business owners and city leaders are calling for more police presence in the Red River district. After a weekend fight left a woman hurt, one businessman is calling on the city to do something to help. Phillip Price manages the G-Spot daiquiri shop in the area. He says a big crowd gathered under the bridge and things got out of hand. Police are still investigating the fight.

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Fight Breaks Out in Red River District

The fight over the weekend marks the first major incident since the business opened a year and two months ago. Price says he witnessed the incident and claims the woman was the first to physically assault a man who then hit her. Price says we need to make sure "the facts are reported accurately without creating a false narrative."

Calls for Increased Police Presence

Business operators and city officials have repeatedly requested a stronger police presence under the bridge. District management has reached out to the Chief and several council members asking for help.

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Past Measures and Gaps in Security

Price says police were out in force during the big Byrd celebration earlier this year. But there is very limited police presence at other events. Many say we need to find a way to bring more police to the area.

What Are Some Options for Protecting the Red River District?

During discussion about this problem, councilman Grayson Boucher suggested putting in portable metal detectors on the weekends to help control the crowds. He also suggested charging a minimal fee on weekends. He says that money could be used to help fund extra patrols in the area.

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Boucher referenced Beall Street in Memphis which charges a $5 dollar fee on select weekends. But other council members say they don't want to charge a fee because that would likely keep people away.