Odessa, Texas – A sizable police contingent, including officers from the Odessa Police Department and Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), arrived at the MCM Grande Hotel and the adjacent Fun Dome complex early Thursday morning. The deployment follows eyewitness reports of a drone flying over the property.
According to a witness who spoke with First Alert 7 and Telemundo 20, the drone was observed circling the hotel and the entertainment venue, prompting concerns about public safety. The witness also noted that no “bangs” or other suspicious noises were heard during the incident.
Law enforcement officials confirmed that a specialized response team was dispatched to the scene to assess the situation and secure the area. While details remain limited, authorities are conducting a thorough investigation to determine the purpose of the drone and whether any further action is required.
Standard protocol for such incidents involves establishing a perimeter, gathering statements from witnesses, and coordinating with any relevant federal or state agencies. In this case, DPS officers are working alongside local police to ensure a coordinated response.
Community members are advised to avoid the immediate vicinity of the hotel and Fun Dome until the investigation is concluded. Residents who observed the drone or have additional information are encouraged to contact the Odessa Police Department’s non‑emergency line.
What to Expect Next
Authorities have indicated that they will continue to monitor the area and will release updates as more information becomes available. The presence of law enforcement is intended to deter any potential threats and to reassure the public that the situation is being handled professionally.
While the incident appears to be isolated, officials remind citizens that drones can pose safety risks when operated in crowded or sensitive locations. Texas law requires drone operators to maintain a line of sight and to avoid flying over private property without permission.
For now, the MCM Grande Hotel and Fun Dome remain closed to the public pending the outcome of the investigation. The Odessa Police Department will issue a statement once the area is deemed safe for reopening.
Stay tuned to local news outlets for further updates on this developing story.
Original reporting: CBS7 / First Alert 7 KOSA (Gray) — read the source article.
