Dear Parents, Students, Alumni and Friends of Mount Carmel,
While I do not have much new to report to you regarding the incident of gun violence that occurred after our football game against Morgan Park High School last night, the perspective that a new day offers may help to solidify some facts and dispel rumors. I hope it will give you a sense of the direction we are headed, as well.
First, approximately 15 to 20 minutes after the conclusion of our football game several shots were fired along 64th Street near Blackstone Avenue. One student from another high school was injured, and a young woman suffered a graze wound. We are confident--and police assured us--that the incident was not targeted at any Mount Carmel students or personnel. No one affiliated with Mount Carmel was injured. Today, we pray for the full recovery of the two young visitors to our campus who were injured last night.
Second, on campus we had more than a dozen law enforcement officers, including those assigned to duty by CPD, as well as our Fathers' Club Security team. Additional police and fire personnel arrived on the scene within minutes of the incident. All of these people showed great poise, were helpful and ensured safety for many. Last evening, police reviewed surveillance video captured by our security cameras with Principal Scott Tabernacki, Deans Dan O'Connor and Julie Chappetto, Athletic Director Phil Segroves and me. The investigation will continue by CPD with our full cooperation. Today, two squad cars were detailed to be a presence at Mount Carmel, as well.
Third, a group of MC leaders, police and safety advisers will convene early next week to review our safety protocols for football games and other high attendance events here at Mount Carmel. Our goal will be singular: increase safety while maintaining the community feel of these MC events. I have appreciated the suggestions that some of you have offered today, as well. We will inform you of any changes that would materially affect your game-day experience.
Fourth, Mount Carmel is committed to the City of Chicago. After last night, it is more clear than ever that the faith- and values-based experience that we offer young men is vital to our great city. While we pray today for the full recovery of the two young visitors to our campus who were injured last night, we continue our efforts to make Chicago a better place to live and grow up as a young man. Our sadness and anger cannot--and will not--overcome the hope we feel as we work in our mission to educate young men in mind, body and spirit. We will not solve Chicago's safety crisis on our own, but Mount Carmel will be a part of the solution.
Fifth, a statement has gone out to the press reiterating the major points articulated in this letter.
Finally, and most importantly, we will redouble our efforts to care for our students. Our awareness is heightened by this incident, of course, and we will watch for signs of trauma in our students and reach out to them.
Please keep the City of Chicago and Mount Carmel in your prayers.
Our Lady of Mount Carmel, pray for us.
Sincerely,
Brendan Conroy
President
Mount Carmel High School
www.easternecho.com
