Westfield Police Will Increase Safety Measures After Texas Shooting

WESTFIELD, NJ — In response to Tuesday's tragedy, where 19 children and 2 adults were killed in a shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, Westfield Police said they will increase school security measures.

In a statement, Chief Christopher Battiloro said the Westfield Police Department already proactively patrols all Westfield schools, which includes unannounced physical security checksof each and every school several times each day.

But in light of Tuesday's tragedy, the department has directed officers to be "even more conspicuous" when it comes to school security.

"The safety and security of our school children is one of the Westfield Police Department’s greatest priorities, and it shall always remain so," Battiloro.

The Westfield Police Department asks that people remain alert and be vigilant at all times, and to report any and all suspicious persons, vehicles and/or activities immediately to the Westfield Police Department via 9-1-1.

Mayor Shelley Brindle also acknowledged the tragedy at Tuesday night's council meeting.

"Tragically, we’ve been here before, and there are simply are no words," Brindle said.

She then asked for a moment of silence for those who were lost in the shooting.

Have a news tip? Email remy.samuels@patch.com.

Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts