Press Release

Multiple Agencies to Conduct Active Shooter Drill at Fonda-Fultonville Central School District

Fonda, NY-- The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, Montgomery County Emergency Services and the Fonda-Fultonville Central School District are conducting an active shooter drill with several other agencies on the school campus Wednesday, Aug. 21.

The drill will take place at 112 Old Johnstown Rd. in Fonda from approximately 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The purpose of the drill is to practice and improve communications between and among agencies and different levels of government in emergency situations. The drill puts a focus on Montgomery County's response to a high threat incident and includes several local and state public safety organizations. It is being funded by a grant from the Department of Homeland Security.

"No one wants to imagine that a scenario like this could ever happen in our community, but we need to be prepared for the unthinkable," Sheriff Jeffery T. Smith said. "This will be an elaborate training simulation, meant to keep authorities sharp and prepared."

"This drill will help our first responders prepare and run through this scenario in the event that it ever did take place," County Executive Matthew L. Ossenfort said. "I think it’s extremely important that we do everything in our power to perfect our response because maintaining the safety of our schools and the community is a top priority."

"The incident is not real; however, the response activities during this fictional exercise will be practiced in a manner that is as realistic as possible," Emergency Management Director Rick Sager said. "It is an important opportunity for emergency responders and the school district to test procedures and ultimately strengthen them."

"Our participation is an indication of how seriously we take the safety of our students and the adults in our school buildings," Fonda-Fultonville Central School District Superintendent of Schools Thomas Ciaccio said. "What we learn from the drill will only enhance our efforts to ensure a safe and secure environment for all who are a part of our school community."

There will be a significant police presence (Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, Amsterdam Police, New York State Police, Canajoharie Police, Fort Plain Police and the St. Johnsville Police) in the vicinity of the school district that day. Community members are asked to avoid the area. There is also the possibility of road closures in the area during this time.

A similar press release will be sent out by the school district. The Sheriff’s Office will also post on social media and conduct a mass notification call to residents next week prior to the drill. Please contact one of the entities listed with any questions or concerns.

Press Release - Multiple Agencies to Conduct Active Shooter Drill at Fonda-Fultonville Central School Distrit (PDF)