UVALDE (Texas) — Pete Arredondo, the embattled chief of school police and newly sworn in City Councilman, missed Tuesday’s meeting which would have marked his debut as a town legislator.
Since Salvador Rolando Ramos (18), broke into Robb Elementary School and killed 19 children, two teachers and their parents, Arredondo has maintained a low profile. A Border Patrol tactical unit brought down the gunman almost an hour later.
Arredondo is believed to have been the incident commander. He is accused of treating the slaughter like a barricade and telling officers in his control not to force confrontation with the killer.
On May 7, the school police chief was elected to the council. On May 31, one week after the shooting, he was sworn in to office during a private ceremony. A council meeting was scheduled for that day. However, it was cancelled due to the tragedy.
Arredondo, District 3’s representative, was absent from Tuesday’s council meeting.
Mayor Don McLaughlin stated that he could not explain Arredondo’s absence, but he didn’t doubt the legitimacy of the new member on the council.
“Peter Arredondo won election by his district. McLaughlin stated that it was up to his district, his people and Mr. Arredondo’s decision to do what he wishes to do. McLaughlin said, “I cannot speak for him. “I can’t speak for him.
McLaughlin refused to answer questions about Arredondo’s absence when McLaughlin was pressed again.
Arredondo was not available for comment immediately on Tuesday.
Calls to Uvalde Consolidated Independent Schools District officials, including its superintendent and president, were not returned by NBC News for comment.
