FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — Northern Arizona University and several regional public safety agencies will conduct a large-scale active shooter preparedness exercise on the NAU campus Friday morning.
The planned exercise will simulate an active shooter incident and the emergency response that would follow. Officials said the goal is to strengthen response capabilities, improve coordination between agencies, and enhance regional preparedness.
The exercise is scheduled to take place from approximately 8 a.m. to noon on Friday, August 7, primarily on NAU’s north campus.
Participating agencies include:
- Northern Arizona University Police Department
- NAU Emergency Management
- Flagstaff Police Department
- City of Flagstaff Emergency Management
- Coconino County Sheriff’s Office
- Flagstaff Fire Department
- Guardian Medical Transport
- Arizona Department of Public Safety
Several vacant buildings near Peterson Hall were selected for the exercise because of their availability and reduced campus activity during the university’s summer schedule.
Residents, employees, and motorists in the area may see a significant emergency response presence, including emergency vehicles, officers and responders wearing tactical equipment, simulated injuries, and other realistic training activities.
Sounds resembling gunfire may also be heard during the exercise. These sounds will be part of the simulation.
Officials emphasized that this is a planned training exercise and that there is no threat to the NAU campus or surrounding community.
Several roads, parking lots, sidewalks, and transit routes on north campus will be closed or have limited access during the exercise. Affected areas include:
- East Franklin Avenue
- McCreary Drive
- The bus transit route through north campus along Beaver Street
Closure signs will be placed beginning at noon Thursday, August 6, and will be removed once the exercise is completed Friday.
The exercise is part of an ongoing partnership between NAU, the City of Flagstaff, and regional emergency response agencies to improve coordination during major emergencies.
