This Columbus football game ended due to violence last year. Why it’s moving in 2024.

Last season’s Heritage Bowl, the annual high school football rivalry game between Carver and Spencer in Columbus, ended in violent chaos. Officials cut the game short at the end of the third quarter after a fight among four female students broke out in the stands and a mass stampede resulted when someone yelled, “Gun!”

The rumor of a gun seen inside Memorial during last year’s Heritage Bowl wasn’t substantiated. But additional fights among juveniles ensued in the parking lot, and three juveniles were arrested on gun possession charges outside the stadium. In total, 10 juveniles were arrested for alleged crimes committed at the event.

All of which prompted Black community leaders to call for accountability and action.

But that’s not the reason the Muscogee County School District cited when it announced Thursday that the 62nd edition of this event will be played on Aug. 23 at MCSD-owned Kinnett Stadium instead of the usual site, city-owned A.J. McClung Memorial Stadium.

Instead, the temporary relocation is due to the renovations at Memorial. The school district could have selected MCSD-owned Odis Spencer Stadium for the 2024 Heritage Bowl, but MCSD communications director Kimberly Wright said in the news release, “Kinnett Stadium was chosen as the temporary venue to accommodate all aspects of the Heritage Bowl event, including congestion and logistics.”

Wright added, “The decision to move the Heritage Bowl was not taken lightly, and extensive planning has gone into ensuring that Kinnett Stadium will meet the needs of players, fans, and staff. The temporary relocation will allow Memorial Stadium to undergo necessary enhancements that will improve the overall experience for future events.”

In addition to the game, fans flock to the Heritage Bowl for the festive tailgating parties. Wright expressed confidence that Kinnett would accommodate that tradition as well.

“Kinnett Stadium is well-equipped to host the Heritage Bowl,” she said. “Despite the change in venue, attendees can expect the same level of excitement and community spirit that the Heritage Bowl is known for.

“We understand the impact this temporary move may have on our fans and the local community. Efforts are being made to minimize inconvenience and ensure a smooth transition. We look forward to returning to Memorial Stadium next year with improved amenities and an even better experience for everyone.”