SLC police say safety is ‘our number one priority’ in preparation for Days of ’47 Parade

SALT LAKE CITY — Following Monday’s deadly shooting at an Independence Day parade near Chicago, the Salt Lake City Police Department called the community its top partner in preventing public threats.

“We continuously work with law enforcement partners locally, regionally, and federally to assess and mitigate any threats, and to immediately respond to any incident that may happen,” the department said in a news release.

This will be important for more parades to mark Utah’s upcoming Days of ’47 celebrations.

Pioneer Day is Sunday, July 24 with the public holiday on Monday, July 25.

At least seven people died and more than 30 were wounded in the Chicago attack on Monday. Police said the gunman fired 70 rounds with an AR-15-type rifle.

The suspect dressed as a woman and blended in with the panicked crowd before his eventual capture.

“The safety of our community is our number one priority, the Salt Lake Police release said. “We continuously work with law enforcement partners locally, regionally, and federally to assess and mitigate any threats and to immediately respond to any incident”.

The release reiterated a long-standing policy saying they do not discuss details of security plans for events and the policy was in place to protect the community and officers.

The department said it is committed to helping ensure a fun and safe event for all.

Anyone with information on a potential threat should call 911.