CHICAGO — Outrage is building among Chicago Fire FC supporters after a video went viral showing a fan being hog-tied and forcefully removed from Soldier Field by guards from Monterrey Security, the firm responsible for stadium security.
The incident occurred during Wednesday’s match and has prompted internal reviews, fan backlash, and renewed scrutiny over Monterrey’s controversial history with aggressive enforcement tactics.
Fan Dragged Out After Waving Palestinian Flag
The fan, identified as Dominic Osmund, was seated with a group that had briefly flown Palestinian flags before complying with security’s request to put them down. Despite that, Osmund was forcibly restrained, hog-tied, and dragged up concrete steps by multiple guards — an act caught on camera and widely shared on social media.
“They tackled him, hog-tied him, and rammed his head against concrete steps,” said Martin Tomszak, who witnessed the event and described Osmund as visibly in shock or concussed.
Tomszak said his friend was also assaulted and detained for filming the incident, despite not receiving any verbal warning from security.
Fans Cite Pattern of Aggressive Behavior
Many longtime Fire fans say this isn’t an isolated incident. Several spoke to Block Club Chicago, recounting personal run-ins with Monterrey Security.
Nicholas Mann, former chair of Section 8 supporters’ group, recalled a 2023 incident when he was accused of setting off fireworks — despite eyewitnesses contradicting the claim and a description that didn’t match him.
“Three guards got in my face. I identified myself, but they kept pressing,” Mann said. “When I pointed out they were targeting the Black guy, it only escalated.”
Mann said another fan was tackled while defending him, and although Fire leadership later apologized, no public confirmation was given about disciplinary action against the guards.
Soldier Field, Monterrey Security Under Review
Chicago Fire FC confirmed it is investigating the incident and held a Zoom meeting Friday with Osmund, Mann, and representatives from Soldier Field and Monterrey Security.
The Chicago Park District, which contracts Monterrey through management firm ASM Global, stated it had requested a full investigation into the matter.
Monterrey Security, based in Pilsen, is no stranger to criticism. The company has faced allegations of overreach and maintains deep political connections in Chicago — a fact that fans say shields it from real accountability.
“They’re too politically connected to be held responsible,” said Mann.
Fallout for the Club
The incident comes at a critical moment for Chicago Fire FC, which recently announced plans for a new soccer-specific stadium in The 78 development. Fans like Tomszak worry that events like this will damage the team’s image and alienate supporters.
“They’re asking for season ticket deposits now — but what does this experience say about fan safety and trust?” he said.
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