MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) — The mall attack in Kenya is resonating here in the Twin Cities, where we have the Mall of America and several other high-profile shopping centers.
The Department of Homeland Security is also urging shopping malls nationwide to increase security, according to a reporter with The Daily Beast.
A spokesman for Mall of America in Bloomington issued this statement Tuesday:
“Mall of America continues to monitor the tragic events unfolding in Kenya with the help of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. We are deeply saddened by the events and our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected. Mall of America has implemented extra security precautions, some may be noticeable to guests, and others won’t be. We will continue to follow the situation, along with law enforcement, and will remain vigilant as we always do in similar situations. The safety and security of our guests, employees and tenants remains our top priority.”
At the Rosedale Center Mall, the Vice President and General Manager, Scott Michaelis says they’re highly aware of the situation in Nairobi, but he wouldn’t talk about the extra security measures they’re taking. He did say his staff is trained to respond to similar situations.
“They’re properly trained to deal with an active shooter situation,” Michaelis said.
Some parts of the training are offered by Roseville Police. Rosedale Mall employees are trained on how to evacuate customers during an event. In October, they plan to have an active shooter simulation, complete with armed actors and police.
“I think we’ve done a good a job with what’s in our control to be ready for an unfortunate incident like this,” said Michaelis.
Bruce Gordon is the spokesman for the Minnesota Department of Public and work closely with the Department of Homeland Security. He says now is the time for businesses and malls to review security policies and procedures.
“It just makes sense for large facilities to review their plans in light of situations around the world, to make sure they’re ready,” Gordon said.
Gordon says there are no known threats in Minnesota at this time.
