It’s a terrifying thought – to have an armed assailant threatening travelers and employees at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP). The Airport Police Department (APD) trains to ensure the best possible outcome should the worst happen.
The APD recently performed a drill that involved several scenarios where an assailant with a firearm was at large in Terminal 2-Humphrey. The exercise involved nearly 40 role players – including Jeff Hamiel, MAC executive director/CEO – as well as participation from other MAC staff, mutual aid partners, including the Bloomington and Richfield police departments, the FBI, Metro Transit officers, and Federal Air Marshalls.
“Dealing with an active assailant is one of the worst-case scenarios we could have in a terminal,” said Deputy Chief Shawn Chamberlain. “Training for this situation is extremely valuable, and we’re thankful that the MAC understands this and supports us in performing these drills.”
Scenarios that involve an active assailant usually only last 6-8 minutes, and the response within that narrow window of time is crucial. Because of this, approximately six scenarios involving an assailant with a firearm were performed during the drill.
Sargent Dave Karsnia began planning for the training more than a year ago in an effort to strengthen the APD’s emergency response and preparedness skills, and at least 20 other APD officers also assisted with planning the drill.
“The biggest value of the training is to be able to respond in the environment and work with our many partners,” said Deputy Chief Chamberlain. “I’d especially like to thank Terminal 2 operations for helping to facilitate this training.”
Training for emergency situations is an ongoing effort for the APD, which is currently planning an autumn exercise at the General Offices.
