The former Memorial Arena in Bridgewater is being put to good use.
Police are using the space to do training on how to deal with a active shooter.
Const. AJ Khan says they’re able to convert their regular firearms into glorified paintball guns.
“When they hit the target they leave a mark,” he says. “They hurt pretty good too. So when we’re training, when we get tagged by it, it’s a good reminder.”
Khan says even though the guns are non-lethal it’s not a game.
Chief John Collyer says Bridgewater had two shootings in the 90’s that lead changes in how they prepare.
“We were outgunned by an assailant who had a rifle,” says Collyer
Since then, he says, they’ve added more safety equipment and a bigger gun called a “carbine.”
However, they both agree, better gear isn’t enough, they need to train regularly.
Khan says training is key to making sure everyone gets home alive.
