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Active shooter training exercise underway on VCU campus

Posted at 12:31 AM, Aug 03, 2016
and last updated 2016-08-03 10:01:32-04

RICHMOND, Va. – If you notice a large police presence on VCU’s Monroe Park Campus Wednesday, don’t be alarmed. VCU police and Richmond police are conducting an active shooter training exercise throughout the morning and day.

The VCU and City of Richmond police departments are conducting drills between 8:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 3.

The exercise will be a simulated active shooter situation inside the Shafer Street Playhouse. There will be realistic simulated sounds inside the building, including gunfire and crowd panic.

VCU says they will send more than 45,000 VCU Alerts to subscribers to increase awareness about the exercise. The university says they will also send a mass email neighborhood organizations and area businesses.

The area of training will be marked with signs and security officers will be on-site to answer questions and direct pedestrian traffic.

Franklin Street will be closed between Harrison and Laurel streets from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Vehicle access will also be closed to Shafer Street between Franklin and Grace Streets during the same time.

VCU faculty, staff, students and visitors should note:

  • Franklin Street will be closed between Harrison and Laurel streets, from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Vehicle access will also be closed to Shafer Street between Franklin and Grace streets during the same time.
  • The area around the Shafer Street Playhouse will be clearly marked with signs and security officers will be on-site to answer questions and direct pedestrian traffic.
  • Pedestrian traffic between Franklin Street and the Shafer Street Playhouse will be closed intermittently while the exercise is in session.
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