Police To Increase Patrols, Checks At Schools & Churches In Cheshire

CHESHIRE, CT — Cheshire police said they will increase patrols and conduct “more frequent location checks” at all schools and houses of worship throughout town in response to the fatal shooting at a Catholic school in Minneapolis on Wednesday.

Police said there were no known threats to Cheshire, but they were taking the steps “out of an abundance of caution” and to reassure the community.

Two children were killed and 17 others were injured Wednesday morning when a gunman opened fire during an all-school Mass at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis, authorities said.

Police said the shooter, identified as 23-year-old Robin Westman, took his own life at the back of the church after firing dozens of rounds into the pews.

The children killed in the attack were 8 and 10 years old.

“In light of the recent tragic and senseless act of violence of the Catholic School Shooting in Minneapolis, the Cheshire Police Department extends our deepest condolences to the victims, their families, and the entire Minneapolis community,” Cheshire police wrote in a post on Facebook. “As a proactive measure to reassure our community, the Cheshire Police Department will be increasing patrols and conducting more frequent location checks at all schools and houses of worship throughout our town. These efforts are part of our continued commitment to ensuring the safety and peace of mind of all our residents and faith communities.

“While there is no known threat to our area at this time, we understand the heightened concern and are taking these steps out of an abundance of caution.

“We remain in close communication with our regional law enforcement partners and encourage residents to report any suspicious activity immediately.

“Thank you for your continued cooperation and trust.”