Expect Police Near West Orange Schools After Texas Shooting: Official

WEST ORANGE, NJ — The West Orange community can expect to see a police presence near its public schools in the near future in light of the tragic shooting at a Texas elementary school on Tuesday, the district’s superintendent says.

The number of children killed at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde has risen to at least 19, according to reports. The gunman – who was killed in the shooting – also shot his grandmother before entering the school, according to reports. Read More: Texas School Shooting: 19 Children Killed In Uvalde

New Jersey Acting Attorney General Matthew Platkin said that New Jersey State Police will ramp up their presence at the Garden State schools where troopers are the primary law enforcement. All 21 county prosecutors have also been instructed to increase local police presence at schools in their jurisdictions.

Gov. Phil Murphy tweeted that the measure comes despite "no credible threats" in New Jersey. Read More: More Police To Patrol NJ Schools After Texas Shooting, AG Says

C. Lauren Schoen, the interim superintendent of schools in West Orange, released the following statement about the local response to the shooting:

“In light of the tragic events that took place at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas this afternoon, please rest assured that I am taking this situation very seriously and activating my staff as per our safety protocols. Additionally, I have been in contact with West Orange Police Chief Abbott throughout the evening, who has assured me that we will have police presence in and around our schools throughout the days and weeks ahead. As these heartbreaking events can cause stress, fear, and concern for our youngest community members, I offer this list of resources and considerations to assist parents, guardians, and caregivers in supporting their children.”

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