This presentation will discuss the benefits of deploying a drone at an Active Shooter Call commensurate with established NTOA Safety Priorities. Interior and exterior drone utilization after the initial active shooter(s) have been neutralized can be consequential for searching/clearing areas for potential improvised explosive devices and/or other asymmetrical threats. Active shooters once positively contacted can still be a threat to the public and first responders by means of explosive, radiological or biological terrorism. Drone utilization can provide real time intelligence in identifying suspicious items on or near the shooter(s) and any vehicles involved. The goal of the presentation is to provide thought provoking concepts for command staff, SWAT and drone pilots as drones provide another valuable tool in response to these incidents.

Mark Lang is a 29-year veteran of the Dallas Police Department and is currently in his 22nd year as a member of Dallas SWAT. Since 2008, he and his team of instructors have taught Public Venue Response and Deployment courses across the United States and into Canada. Foreseeing the domestic and international terrorist threats at public venues, Lang's team trains SWAT teams in the proactive deployment at major events. With an emphasis on police snipers, operators, bomb technicians and command and control, many consider Lang to be the Subject Matter Expert (SME) in this field. With his curriculum having been taught to officers ranging from limited-use venues to Levi's Stadium for Super Bowl 50, his instructing cadre completed their first NASCAR venue in May 2017.