An independent investigation into the local police's handling of the May 2022 #Uvalde, #Texas school massacre, led by retired Austin detective Jesse Prado, concluded with the exoneration of all local officers from wrongdoing. This decision, presented at a city council meeting, sparked outrage among victims' families, who demanded accountability nearly two years after the tragedy.
Despite acknowledging "many failures" in the police response, Prado's report did not fault specific local officers. The investigation's findings particularly highlighted Uvalde Police Lt. Javier Martinez and Staff Sgt. Eduardo Canales, both of whom were cleared of any misconduct despite the overall critique of the police response.
Family members, visibly frustrated, vocally criticized the report's conclusions. Kimberly Mata-Rubio and Veronica Mata, parents of the victims, expressed their disbelief and disappointment, emphasizing the officers' inaction during the crucial moments of the attack. Council member Ernest "Chip" W. King III and other attendees echoed this sentiment, questioning the adequacy of the police response and the investigator's conclusions.
The investigation also touched on the actions of a Border Patrol tactical commander, Paul Guerrero, who hesitated to advance on the shooter due to concerns about breaching the door despite having access to necessary equipment. This decision, as well as other cited instances of hesitation and lack of coordination among #police, added to the grief and frustration of the families seeking justice and transparency.
While the report acknowledged systemic failures in the police response, it failed to hold individual officers accountable for their actions—or lack thereof—during the tragic event.
Our hearts go out to the families affected by the Uvalde school massacre.
Link: CNN
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