Executive Summary
- Jacksonville Police and Onslow County EMS conducted a joint active shooter drill.
- The exercise utilized actors and dummies to simulate high-stress realism.
- Police Chief Jarad Phelps emphasized the importance of stress management in training.
- The event was held on a federal holiday to avoid disrupting students and faculty.
First responders from multiple agencies gathered at Jacksonville Commons Middle School on Monday to conduct a high-intensity active shooter training exercise aimed at testing emergency protocols. The collaborative operation included personnel from the Jacksonville Police Department, Onslow County EMS, and local fire departments.
Organizers structured the drill to mimic the chaotic environment of a live critical incident. According to reports from the scene, the exercise utilized actors wearing theatrical makeup to simulate injuries, as well as child-sized dummies, to create a realistic visual landscape for the responders. Because the training was scheduled on a federal holiday, no students or faculty were present on the campus.
Jacksonville Police Chief Jarad Phelps addressed the specific goals of the operation, citing the need for officers to manage high stress levels effectively. “We are making it as realistic as possible,” Phelps stated. He noted that the objective is to induce the anxiety and emotions inherent in such crises to ensure that personnel can perform optimally when treating victims or neutralizing threats.
Operational Readiness Assessment
The execution of this multi-agency drill underscores the critical importance of interoperability between law enforcement and medical teams during mass casualty events. By utilizing the actual school infrastructure, first responders are able to identify logistical challenges and communication gaps that could hinder a response during a real emergency. This proactive training approach is essential for refining tactical entry standards and casualty evacuation procedures in educational settings.
