Sheriff Booker extended his condolences to the victims’ families and the Minneapolis community, calling the attack “heartbreaking and unimaginable.”
“What happened in Minneapolis is every parent’s worst nightmare,” Booker said. “As a sheriff, but more importantly as a father and a grandfather, my heart breaks for the families who lost their children today. While this tragedy occurred outside Whiteside County, we stand united in grief and we remain committed to doing everything possible to keep our schools safe here at home.”
Booker noted that school safety remains one of his top priorities in Whiteside County. He said the sheriff’s office continues to work with schools, law enforcement partners, and community leaders to strengthen security, improve emergency response, and support preventative programs.
“No parent should ever fear for their child’s safety at school,” Booker said. “Our office remains fully committed to doing everything possible to protect the children and families of Whiteside County.”