We’ve heard terrifying and sad stories about school shootings across the country. And personally, I have wondered if it happens at one of our schools, how will our officers respond?
Will reinforcements come?
Will they hesitate?
Will they work together?
Today, a 911 call reported an active shooter at Pensacola Catholic High School. The call, later determined to be swatting, was a realistic prank phone call to emergency services that resulted in the dispatch of armed police officers to the high school.
A parent eye-witness, who wished to remain anonymous, tells Local Pulse, “It was the most professional operation I have ever seen,” continuing that after the drill was over she relayed her gratitude for the quick response to a deputy on site.
The deputy responded, “We are always going to rush in…always.”
The parent, who happened to be in the office at the school, was placed on lockdown with staff. With a front-row seat, she watched a coordinated effort by Escambia County Sheriff’s Office and Pensacola Police Department, with backup called into Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office.
“I was completely impressed with the actions of everyone including school staff, coaches, teachers, and students. All were quick, calm, and followed the rules. School officials were all so brave helping the deputies and officers,” stating that officers arrived within one minute of the call.
Ambulances and emergency medical technicians were also positioned outside the school in the event of a different outcome.
She continued by saying, “Not only did the officers not hesitate, but they also went into individual classrooms and cleared each room by checking all the students. They stuck to their training and protocols!”
So now we know.
Reinforcements are coming.
They will not hesitate.
And they will work together.
For the good of us all and for the safety of the students of Pensacola area schools.
Do not mess with our children.
Not mine. Not theirs. Not ours.
Not here.
