06/22/24 Active Shooter Story

Incident Details:

• Date: June 22, 2024
• Time: 10:05 AM
• Location: Lakewood High School, 2022 School Avenue, Lakewood, NJ

​Incident Description:
On June 22, 2024, at approximately 10:05 AM, an active shooter entered Lakewood High School in Lakewood, New Jersey. The shooter, a former student with a history of behavioral issues, began firing in the school’s hallway during a break between classes. The incident resulted in injuries to several students and staff, causing widespread panic and a significant emergency response.

How Proper Planning and Preparedness Helped Mitigate Losses and the Incident:

1. School Safety Protocols and Planning:
   
   • Active Shooter Response Plan: Lakewood High School had a comprehensive active shooter response plan developed in consultation with local law enforcement, emergency responders, and school safety experts. This plan included detailed procedures for lockdowns, communication, and coordination with emergency services.
   • Regular Drills: The school conducted regular active shooter drills, involving students, teachers, and staff. These drills included practical exercises on lockdown procedures, hiding, and evacuating. Drills were conducted at least twice a semester to ensure readiness.
2. Security Measures and Infrastructure:
   
   • School Security Officers: Lakewood High School employed a security officer who was trained in active shooter response and general security procedures. The officer was stationed at key entry points and had communication devices to coordinate with law enforcement.
   • Controlled Access: The school had controlled access points with security cameras and electronic locks. These measures helped monitor and manage who entered the building, although the shooter managed to bypass these controls.
3. Emergency Communication Systems:
   
   • Lockdown Alert System: The school had an integrated lockdown alert system that included alarms, notifications, and automated lockdown procedures. When the shooting began, the system was activated, locking classroom doors and notifying law enforcement.
   • Instant Messaging: The school utilized instant messaging and notification systems to quickly inform staff and parents about the situation. The system was used to provide updates and instructions during the incident.
4. Coordination with Emergency Services:
   
   • Swift Notification: Upon recognizing the threat, the school’s administration immediately contacted local police and emergency services. The rapid notification enabled a quick and coordinated response from law enforcement.
   • Effective Response: Law enforcement, including SWAT teams and local police, responded promptly to the scene. Their swift action helped to contain the situation, neutralize the threat, and secure the area.
5. Medical and Psychological Support:
   
   • On-Site Medical Assistance: The school had a basic first aid response team that provided immediate care to injured individuals until paramedics arrived. This initial care was critical in stabilizing the injured.
   • Crisis Counseling: After the incident, the school provided counseling services for students, staff, and families affected by the shooting. Mental health professionals were available on-site and through community resources to support the emotional recovery.
6. Post-Incident Review and Improvement:
   
   • Debriefing and Assessment: A thorough debriefing was conducted with all involved parties, including school staff, emergency responders, and law enforcement. The assessment focused on evaluating the response and identifying areas for improvement.
   • Plan Revision: Based on the lessons learned, the school updated its active shooter response plan and security measures. Changes included additional training, upgraded security infrastructure, and improved communication systems.

Lessons Learned and Best Practices:

1. Develop and Regularly Update an Active Shooter Plan: A detailed active shooter response plan should include procedures for lockdowns, communication, and coordination with emergency services. Regularly review and update the plan to address new threats and improve effectiveness.
   
2. Conduct Frequent Drills: Regularly conduct active shooter drills involving all school personnel and students. Drills should simulate realistic scenarios to help individuals practice their roles and responses.
   
3. Implement Strong Security Measures: Employ security officers, maintain controlled access points, and use surveillance systems to monitor and manage entry into the school. Ensure that these measures are regularly tested and updated.
   
4. Utilize Effective Communication Systems: Implement integrated communication systems for lockdown alerts and notifications. Ensure that these systems are tested regularly and that staff are trained to use them effectively.
   
5. Coordinate with Law Enforcement: Establish strong communication and coordination protocols with local law enforcement. Joint training exercises and planning with emergency services can enhance response capabilities.
   
6. Provide Medical and Psychological Support: Offer immediate medical care and psychological support to those affected by the incident. Ensure that mental health resources are available for ongoing support and recovery.
   
7. Conduct Post-Incident Reviews: After an incident, conduct a thorough review to assess the response and identify areas for improvement. Apply lessons learned to enhance future preparedness and response strategies.
   

By implementing these best practices and applying lessons learned from the June 22, 2024, active shooter incident at Lakewood High School, other schools and organizations can improve their preparedness for similar emergencies, thereby enhancing safety and minimizing the impact of such critical situations.