World boxing champion Terence Crawford was ordered out of his vehicle at gunpoint by police in Omaha, Nebraska, early on Sunday, just hours after a parade celebrating his victory over Canelo Álvarez. The traffic stop occurred shortly before 1.30am, with officers citing reckless driving.
Police Chief Todd Schmaderer has launched an internal affairs investigation into the incident, a move supported by Omaha Mayor John Ewing. According to police, officers observed a vehicle driving recklessly and, during the stop, spotted a gun on the driver's side floorboard. All four occupants were ordered out at gunpoint.
The driver was later identified as Crawford, who was ticketed for reckless driving. One passenger, a member of Crawford's security team, was found to be carrying a legal firearm. Police confirmed that all occupants are legally permitted to carry firearms. A police supervisor and lieutenant responded at Crawford's request.
Qasim Shabazz, head of Crawford's security team, described the ordeal as a nightmare, stating, 'I thought we were getting ready to lose our lives.' Crawford, a hero in Omaha, still lives in the city where he runs a non-profit boxing academy for at-risk children.
Mayor Ewing expressed shock at the incident, saying, 'Understand that my heart dropped in learning of this end to an otherwise wonderful day.' He emphasised the need for transparency and trust between law enforcement and the community. Crawford became the unified super middleweight champion after his unanimous decision win over Álvarez, making him the first male boxer to capture three unified division titles.
