As students in the Uvalde Consolidated Independent School District (UCISD) return to classes for the first time since the Robb Elementary shooting, an investigation has been launched into several law enforcement officers who responded to the tragedy.
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) announced that it had recommended five of its peace officers to the Office of Inspector General for investigation regarding their conduct during the Robb Elementary shooting. Of the five, two troopers have been suspended with pay.
DPS spokesperson Ericka Miller explained, “In July, DPS announced the formation of an internal committee.” Based on that group’s findings, “Five DPS law enforcement officers have now been referred to the Office of Inspector General where a formal investigation into actions that day will take place.”
Out of a total of 376 first responders, 91 DPS troopers were on-site during the shooting, according to a report conducted by an investigative committee in the Texas House of Representatives. Still, it took law enforcement 73 minutes to breach the room the shooter was in.
The announcement of an investigation into the DPS troopers comes as students return to class in Uvalde. Tuesday, September 6 marked the first day Uvalde CISD schools were open since the tragic mass shooting at Robb Elementary.
On top of an increased security presence by local authorities, more than 30 DPS troopers were sent by Gov. Greg Abbott to patrol the campuses in the school district, as reported by The Dallas Express.
DPS Director Steven McCraw explained, “We know going back to school will be especially challenging for many in Uvalde … The Texas Department of Public Safety is committed to working with the Uvalde Consolidated Independent School District to ensure each child, parent, and teacher feels safe and protected.”
The campus where the shooting occurred will not be reopened. Uvalde CISD has indicated its intention to tear the building down and erect an entirely new facility.
School districts across the state, including Dallas ISD, encouraged students to wear maroon and white on Tuesday in solidarity with the Uvalde students.