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Student emergency training tested in armed standoff at New York school
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Stissing Mountain High School in Pine Plains (FoxNY)
Pine Plains, NY - In a letter to parents, Stissing Mountain High School administration advised that the students, staff and Dutchess County Sheriff's Department conducted a "hold in place" drill, which instructed students and staff to take cover in their area in event of an emergency such as what occurred today. The drill, which was held on November 5th, no doubt, made a difference in this situation, as the training provided "staff and students the opportunity to experience authentic situations (that) enhances their ability to respond calmly and be well prepared during an actual event." according to the letter.
Police responded shortly before 8:30 this morning to the Pine Plains, NY high school, after receiving reports of an armed gunman holding school principal, Robert Hess, hostage. Suspect, Chris Craft, 42, of Stanfordville, a former student, is said to have a son in the military and is upset with the government an AP report shows. No reason was given as of this time.
Police placed the school on lock-down and were able to evacuate some of the students. All students were reported to be safe, which may in some part be due to the "hold in place" drill. By following this training, it likely eliminated the usual chaos and panic that first responders must deal with before they can take action with regards to the incident at hand.
Police were able to bring about a peaceful resolution with no injuries, apprehending suspect around 10:00 this morning.
