No Cause for Concern as New Bedford Courthouse Trains for Active Shooter Scenario

The Third District Courthouse in New Bedford may look more like a crime scene Saturday morning, but police say it's nothing to worry about.

New Bedford Police will be conducting active shooter training with courthouse staff at the downtown courthouse from 8am to noon Saturday. Police Lt. Amos Melo tells WBSM News passersby during that time will see emergency responders swarming around the building, but it's just a drill. "They'll see a lot of emergency vehicles. Some yellow caution tape. There'll be cruisers surrounding the courthouse. Probably two or three ambulances. I'm sure the fire department will have a rig there, also. They'll be seeing a lot of running around and a lot of commotion," said Lt. Melo.

Up to 80 courthouse officials will be taking part in the active shooter training, which will cover up to five possible realistic scenarios.

The New Bedford Police Department has been training various city offices the proper ways to respond to active shooter scenarios.