An independent report commissioned by the City of Uvalde regarding the 2022 school shooting at Robb Elementary School has determined that none of the city's officers violated department policy. This finding has sparked outrage among families of the victims, who were among the 19 children and two teachers tragically killed in the incident.
Background of the Investigation
The report was conducted by Jesse Prado, an Austin-based investigator and former police detective, who was hired by the city to investigate the local response to the shooting. The inquiry was ordered by city officials in July 2022, following a state lawmakers' report that highlighted significant failures in law enforcement decision-making during the incident.
Key Findings of the Report
The report, prepared for potential litigation purposes, included detailed interviews with Uvalde police officers and dispatchers. It concluded that none of the officers had violated agency policies. However, it highlighted several critical issues, such as the delay in entering the room where the shooter was located, which resulted in a prolonged response time.
One of the recommendations emphasized the importance of continuously seeking to eliminate the threat posed by an active shooter and ensuring a swift victim response. The report also detailed challenges faced by officers in unlocking doors inside the school, further impeding their ability to reach the affected areas promptly.
Reactions and Ongoing Investigations
Families of the victims expressed frustration and anger during Prado's presentation, particularly regarding his comments about their impact on the police response. The report also criticized the local prosecutor for alleged lack of cooperation with the inquiry.
Past reports, including one by the U.S. Department of Justice, have highlighted failures in the initial response to the school shooting, citing issues with establishing command, communication, and leadership. A criminal investigation into the law enforcement response remains ongoing, with a grand jury convened earlier this year.
Despite the findings of the latest report, questions persist about the handling of the tragic incident and the accountability of those involved in the response.
