Las Vegas police and religious leaders team up for school shooting training

Sasha Loftis and Stephanie Overton

16 mins ago

LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — Las Vegas Metropolitan Police worked with local religious leaders Saturday to conduct school shooting training in the northwest valley.

“We cover everything,” said LVMPD Detective Adrian Hunt. “Run, hide and fight.”

Detective Hunt, who also serves as president of the Nevada chapter of the Black Police Association, spoke to 8 News Now about his team’s efforts to prepare the community.

“It has become necessary for us in the church community,” added Pastor Michael Jackson at the event.

Dozens of people filled the Tabernacle of Praise Church in the Northwest Valley Saturday afternoon to learn practical strategies. Churches, businesses and people from across Southern Nevada were represented.

“We are partners with the community,” said Detective Hunt. “And it takes a village.”

Detective Hunt said such events were extremely important because he and other law enforcement officials taught people how to respond decisively in stressful situations.

“It’s sad, but that’s what matters these days,” Detective Hunt explained. “But we want everyone to be prepared.”

Tabernacle pastor Michael Jackson said shootings were a big issue for him because religious buildings like his are so open to the public.

Religious institutions have also been the target of attacks throughout the country in the past.

“We see it on TV and hear the horrible stories,” Pastor Jackson said. “But if we can prepare, I think the situation will be much better.”

It’s a situation no one would like to see, but attendees at Saturday’s event told 8 News Now they want everyone to be prepared just in case.

“If it’s necessary,” Detective Hunt concluded. “It’s a last resort.”

According to organizers, about 30 churches and businesses from across the community were represented at the training event.