Executive Summary
- Bristol secures $3.15 million federal grant for a new active shooter training center.
- Facility advocated by Officer Alec Iurato, survivor of the 2022 ambush that killed two officers.
- Design includes configurable layouts to simulate schools and businesses for realistic training.
- Center allows joint tactical exercises for police and fire departments to improve response times.
BRISTOL, Conn. – A specialized active shooter training facility is slated for construction in Bristol following a successful push for resources by Officer Alec Iurato, who survived a fatal 2022 ambush that resulted in the deaths of two fellow officers.
According to city officials, the project is supported by a $3.15 million federal grant, which will finance the design and site selection processes. The planned facility will feature an indoor shooting range and a physical training center specifically for firefighters. Notably, the structure will include two floors with configurable layouts designed to mimic schools and business environments, ensuring first responders encounter unpredictable scenarios during exercises.
Officer Iurato, who was wounded during the October 2022 incident that killed Lt. Dustin Demonte and Sgt. Alex Hamzy, emphasized the necessity of preparing for chaos. "The unfortunate reality is that we see way too many active shooter situations," Iurato stated in an interview with NBC Connecticut, noting that the primary objective is to control outcomes and save lives.
Bristol Fire Chief Rick Hart highlighted the facility's role in multi-agency coordination. "Time is of a critical importance," Hart said, explaining that firefighters will train alongside police officers to practice victim extraction in hostile environments. Iurato noted the grim irony that he had been participating in active shooter training on the very morning of the 2022 ambush, reinforcing his commitment to securing advanced training resources for the department.
Public Safety Impact
The establishment of this facility represents a significant investment in tactical infrastructure for municipal law enforcement in Connecticut. By simulating dynamic environments such as schools and commercial spaces, the department aims to bridge the gap between theoretical protocol and high-stress application. This development also underscores a broader operational shift towards integrated response strategies, where police and fire units train simultaneously to expedite casualty care during active shooter events.
