National Football League

Railings replaced in Indianapolis

Published Sep. 13, 2013 1:00 a.m. ET

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Officials at Lucas Oil Stadium have replaced the railing that apparently gave way last weekend, injuring two fans during the game between the Indianapolis Colts and Oakland Raiders.

Witnesses said the two fans were leaning against a wobbly railing that gave way. Barney Levengood, executive director of the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium, said the railing has been replaced and all others were inspected and secured this week.

''We feel confident that we've gone through and it is safe,'' Levengood told The Associated Press on Friday. ''We have looked at every nut, every bolt, every piece and we feel that along with that and the awareness of our patrons, we will have a safe environment this weekend.''

Levengood did not say what caused the accident because the investigation is continuing.

He also did not say whether any additional security measures would be taken this weekend. Instead, Levengood noted, the normally large ''contingent'' of security people and ushers will do their best to help ensure fans are safe.

In addition, Levengood said, inspection crews have checked the rest of the stadium to make sure there is not a repeat. The railings are about three to four feet tall.

''We have gone through every railing, not only the ones around this portal, but we've gone through every permanent handrail from the suites to the terrace level to club sections, every railing in the building and we are confident we have a safe and secure environment for our game this weekend.''

One of the injured fans was treated at the stadium and released. The other was treated at the stadium then was transported to Methodist Hospital. In a statement released Sunday evening, Levengood said neither fan was believed to be seriously injured.

There has been no update on the second fan's condition, though. Hospital officials have cited federal privacy laws.

The accident occurred less than two weeks after local officials announced they would bid on the 2018 Super Bowl. After hosting its first Super Bowl in February 2012, the city received rave reviews.

NFL owners will select which cities can formally bid on the game during an October meeting. Indy could be challenged by Atlanta, Denver, Miami, Minneapolis and New Orleans.

Local officials do not believe Sunday's accident will hurt Indy's chances.''Absolutely not,'' Levengood said.

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