Local districts prepared for worst

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Law enforcement agencies in this area said they are prepared to react fast and effectively in the event that any event similar to the mass shootings in Connecticut on Friday occurs here.

"Our officers are trained differently now, and we've trained many, many years back," he added. "Our officers are trained in topics like HIP's, Homicide In Progress, and if we arrive on the scene of an active shooter, we will not wait, we will go in. And, we will make an immediate attempt to save lives and to end the threat."

Capt. Christian Evoy of the Austin school district police department said his officers are also trained and prepared in the event of such a catastrophe. He declined to divulge specific details, but said officers are nearby Austin's elementary schools.

Plans are also in place to notify parents and other law enforcement agencies when a rapid response is required.

APD's Manley's said that in the past two years the department has activated its "CAST" unit, for Counter Assault Strike Team.

"Ad this team is trained and equipped to respond quickly to incidents like active shooters," Manley said. "These officers go through extensive training and we've provided them with the support equipment to make response to these scenes.

"But at the end of the day," he added, "it's always going to be the first line responders upon arrival that are going to go in and make that immediate entry and begin life saving efforts."

Police Chief Art Acevedo's response was more emotional.

"I am saddened beyond words about the senseless tragedy (at) Sandy Hook Elementary," he said on his Twitter account. "My thoughts & prayers go out to the families of the victims."