This is story is the third in a series reporting the incidents following the shooting death on Sept. 3rd at Virginia Avenue Park.
Following the Sept. 3rd shooting of a 20-year-old former Santa Monica High School student, security has been increased at the school and at Friday evening’s homecoming football game against Inglewood High School.
On the day following the shooting of Richard Juarez, school officials sent out an e-mail assuring students and their families that additional security was place to secure campus safety.
Another message was sent out Friday morning, this time not only from Principal Hugo Pedroza, but also from Superintendent Tim Cuneo and Police Chief Tim Jackman.
“Because this occurrence appears to be gang-related, there is a great deal of concern regarding the safety of students and adults before, during and after Samohi’s Homecoming football game tonight,” it read.
The message explained plans on keeping the peace through increased traffic police, closed streets, controlled parking, increased stadium security presence and asked for parents to consider accompanying their children – reportedly to help alleviate after-game traffic congestion. It also asked everyone to coordinate with the request of police and other officials.
“We are aware that this game may be a bit more challenging than usual because of the issues going on in our community,” the message read. “It is precisely at times like these that we need to bring our energy and talents together and prevent an unfortunate incident from defining how we celebrate our youth.”
Despite all the precautions, the game was not called off and the message even implored its recipients to help spread the word that the game was safe to come.
“We feel quite confident we will have a wonderful time tonight,” the message ended.
