Videos and photos that surfaced online showing what looked like a sniper at an unauthorized St. Patrick’s Day celebration in Waterloo, Ont., on Saturday, actually featured a tactical officer who has been regularly assigned for such events, according to regional police.
“This is something that happens regularly at planned or unsanctioned events where we expect a large turnout,” Const. Melissa Quarrie, a spokesperson with the Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS), explained.
“It occurs at major gatherings not just with us but also with our policing partners across the province and Canada.”
She mentioned that having a tactical officer present is standard practice for significant events.
“Given the unfortunate mass casualty incidents we’ve seen across North America and globally, these experiences heavily influence our emergency response plans for all kinds of large gatherings.”
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Pictures and videos showing what seemed to be a sniper circulated on social media during the unauthorized St. Patrick’s Day street party. (Reddit)
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‘It was really intense’
After images and clips of the tactical officer were posted online over the weekend, some people expressed that they felt this presence was “extreme,” while others questioned if there were valid reasons for deploying such an officer. “It was really intense, honestly. I can’t describe how shocked I was in that moment,” said Annelise Meerton, an Australian exchange student who noticed the apparent sniper above the crowd of revelers. “We saw this man dressed all in black. We couldn’t see his face or anything, which was frightening.” She stated she felt scared and promptly left the party after seeing him. Even after learning about why he was there, Meerton still believes it was an extreme safety measure. “I get why they thought it was necessary. But I’m not sure why it had to be so visible; it made it seem more threatening than protective,” she commented, adding that if given another chance next year, she wouldn’t attend again. “I definitely think it was extreme.”Mayor Seeks Clarification
Waterloo Mayor Dorothy Mc Cabe expressed her surprise upon discovering that a WRPS tactical officer had been deployed as part of law enforcement’s strategy for handling the unsanctioned street gathering. Mc Cabe mentioned she spoke with Police Chief Mark Crowell to understand why they deemed it necessary to have such an officer present at the event. “I’ve talked with Chief Crowell and gained a better understanding of their comprehensive planning,” she said in a statement to. “I’m confident that police, bylaw officers, and other emergency service partners are maintaining a professional approach towards keeping our community safe.” The mayor indicated she hadn’t received any information regarding concerns about weapons or serious violence warranting such deployment during last weekend’s festivities. “In our two-tier municipal system, the chief doesn’t report directly to me as mayor, nor do I sit on the police board.” I’m still looking for more answers. I have more questions just like residents do , and I’ll arrange time to meet with Chief Crowell once things settle down and we know all details about this year’s event.”Source link
