
The rise in violent incidents at large public venues has prompted authorities to ramp up preparedness efforts, leading to a significant training exercise in Central Florida.
On January 1, 2025, a devastating attack in New Orleans, Louisiana, claimed the lives of 15 people, including the perpetrator. The tragedy was classified as an act of domestic terror, further highlighting the concerning trend of violent attacks in crowded spaces. As Click Orlando noted, “Officials said they’ve seen a rise in dangerous attacks over the last decade, especially in large facilities.”
In response, a large-scale emergency drill took place at the Orlando Convention Center in Orange County, Florida, involving over 300 participants. The 90-minute exercise was led by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), Orange County Fire Rescue, and the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, simulating real-life crisis scenarios.
Emergency teams “conducted a full-scale exercise with actors using fake blood and weapons to play out mass shootings and other violent attacks” to ensure first responders were well-equipped “for the real thing.”
“This exercise has been well in planning for over a year and it just happens to be a coincidence that it’s similar to what happened in New Orleans,” explained Orange County Sheriff’s Office Undersheriff Mark Canty (via Click Orlando). “Our staff tirelessly looks, researches, and plans for every type of contingency. It’s not just an actual shooter at a school or mall. It’s everything that can harm this community and put it in danger.”
Chief Martis Mack of the Orange County Fire Rescue Division also pointed out the evolving nature of violent incidents: “Last year we started seeing a string of active shooter events with fire being used, so last year our drill was focused on an active shooter drill with fire as a weapon.”
Given that Orange County is home to some of the world’s largest theme parks—including Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort—the need for heightened emergency readiness is clear. While such incidents remain rare within the parks, Disney guests were left unsettled last year when a potential active shooter situation at Magic Kingdom Park ultimately turned out to be a false alarm.
How do you feel about Orange County officials taking these proactive measures? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!