Top Justice Department officials, including Attorney General Merrick Galrland, announced Wednesday that they had launched an incident investigation into the mass shooting at Robb Elementary school in Uvalde (Texas),
This review will provide an independent account on law enforcement responses and actions during the shooting that resulted in the deaths of 19 students and two teachers. This is not a criminal investigation and it will not lead to any penalties for Uvalde police officers.
Attorney General Merrick Garland stated that “Nothing can undo or reverse the suffering inflicted upon the loved ones of victims, survivors, and the entire community at Uvalde.” “But, the Justice Department can and WILL use its independence and expertise to evaluate what happened and provide guidance going forward.”
Locals in Uvalde, as well as others around the country, have criticised law enforcement’s response to the shooting on May 24, which they called too slow.
Already, law enforcement experts are on the ground in Texas. They will review documents and interview law enforcement officers. The reviewers will examine policies, training, communication, incident command and other issues. They will also discuss victim and survivor support and resources.
According to the Justice Department, the review will help identify lessons learned and develop best practices for first responders. It will also lay out safety and engagement measures for communities before, during, and after shootings.
The department has not set a timetable but stated that it will work “as quickly as possible” to produce a report that will then be published upon completion.
Retired public safety officials, including those who have been victims of mass shootings like Orange County, Florida and Virginia Tech, were among the experts that were selected to review the report.
