Outcry in Uvalde: Families Demand Accountability for Delayed Police Response

In the aftermath of the Uvalde school shooting, families and community members demand accountability for the delayed police response. Despite 911 calls from trapped students, law enforcement took over 70 minutes to confront the shooter. Released records have reignited anger and calls for justice, transparency, and legal action.

A tragic shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, has led to widespread outcry over the delayed police response. On May 24, 2022, Khloie Torres, a fourth-grader, made harrowing 911 calls describing the horrific scene in her classroom.

The police took over 70 minutes to confront the gunman, Salvador Ramos, despite desperate pleas from children, teachers, and parents. Law enforcement's slow reaction has been heavily criticized as a major failure. The Associated Press and other news organizations successfully sued for the release of body camera and surveillance footage, as well as 911 recordings, which finally came to light after prolonged legal battles.

Families of victims demand justice and transparency. Brett Cross, who lost his 10-year-old nephew Uziyah Garcia, expressed anger over the delayed release of the records. Jesse Rizo, another bereaved relative, believes quicker police action could have saved lives. Multiple investigations expose systemic failures in law enforcement, including poor communication and a lack of urgency in establishing command.

(With inputs from agencies.)