Chicago first responders simulate active-shooter incident at Wrigley Field

Bob Hille

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Chicago first responders simulate active-shooter incident at Wrigley Field image

The "friendly confines" were considerably less friendly Thursday — not to mention a sign of the times — as Chicago-area first responders simulated a large-scale "active shooter incident" at Wrigley Field, according to multiple reports.

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The exercise, planned months in advance and timed to coincide with MLB's All-Star break, was scheduled to run from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. CT and include Chicago firefighters and police, the city's emergency office and the Cubs.

Cubs spokesman Julian Green told The Chicago Tribune that the team, which opens the second half at home Friday against the Rangers, is happy to partner with law enforcement on the exercise to ensure a safe and secure environment at the historic stadium.

Officials warned Wrigleyville residents and businesses that the exercise would include "simulated ammunition and flash bangs." According to The Tribune, Chicago police have conducted similar drills at other large venues.

Bob Hille

Bob Hille Photo

Bob Hille, a senior content consultant for The Sporting News, has been part of the TSN team for most of the past 30 years, including as managing editor and executive editor. He is a native of Texas (forever), adopted son of Colorado, where he graduated from Colorado State, and longtime fan of “Bull Durham” (h/t Annie Savoy for The Sporting News mention).