Minneapolis School Shooting Leads To Extra Patrols In Cherry Hill

CHERRY HILL, NJ — Cherry Hill police will increase patrols at houses of worship and schools in response to Wednesday's mass shooting at a Catholic school in Minneapolis.

The measures are precautionary, and there is no known threat to the Cherry Hill community, says Mayor David Fleisher.

"In an abundance of caution, the Cherry Hill Police Department implemented higher-visibility patrols at all houses of worship across the Township," Fleisher said in a statement. "Additionally, as we transition into the new school year, the Department will be conducting increased patrols at all of our schools, as well."

Students return to Cherry Hill Public Schools on Tuesday.

"Here at home, I want to assure our community that our Police Department takes crisis training and preparedness very seriously," Fleisher said. "Under the leadership of Chief (John) Ostermueller, the department is in regular communication with law enforcement agencies at the local, state and federal level."

A shooter opened fire Wednesday at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis, killing two children and injuring 18 people before dying by suicide. A school-wide Mass had been underway on the third day of school.

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"Violence such as this is always heartbreaking and disturbing," Fleisher said. "It is particularly cowardly and shameful when such acts take place at houses of worship."

Fleisher encouraged residents to report suspicious activity to the Cherry Hill Police Department:

• call 911 for emergencies.
• call 856-665-1200 for non-emergencies
• send an anonymous tip by emailing tips@cherryhillpolice.com or via text — text "TIP CHERRYHILLPD" followed by your message to 888777.