Twin Cities Schools Increase Police Presence After Multiple Shootings

In response to the tragic shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis that left two children dead and 17 others injured, law enforcement agencies in the Twin Cities and surrounding areas have significantly increased their presence around schools and places of worship. Saint Paul Police Department offered added security to every public and private school in its district, with visible patrols alongside the Saint Paul Fire Department, while Minneapolis partnered with multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Minnesota State Patrol and Department of Natural Resources, to patrol school zones and religious sites. These efforts aim to reassure students, families, and staff, emphasizing safety and peace of mind amid heightened concerns. Bernards Township and South Simcoe Police Departments have also stepped up their school safety measures, including stationing officers at schools and intensifying traffic enforcement during drop-off and pick-up times. Community members, like parents in Minneapolis and Saint Paul, have expressed cautious optimism and gratitude for these proactive measures, despite the somber circumstances that necessitated them. Overall, the coordinated response underscores a commitment across jurisdictions to protect children and maintain a safe learning environment following the recent violence.