Woman civilian killed during police drill

Local police department chief Thomas Lewis said there were a total of 35 civilians present during the exercise and two of them were randomly chosen for participation.

Local police department chief Thomas Lewis said there were a total of 35 civilians present during the exercise and two of them were randomly chosen for participation.

Published Aug 10, 2016

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Moscow - A US police officer has accidentally shot down a woman during a drill at the Punta Gorda Citizen Police Academy in the state of Florida, media reported Wednesday, citing local authorities.

The tragedy occurred when police officers were simulating lethal force in a live role play, the NBC2 News broadcaster said.

Local police department chief Thomas Lewis said there were a total of 35 civilians present during the exercise and two of them were randomly chosen for participation.

A participant, identified as Mary Knowlton, was "mistakenly struck with a live round," according to Lewis.

"I am devastated for everyone involved in this unimaginable event. If you pray, please pray for Mary's family, and for the officers who were involved. Everyone involved in this accident is in a state of overwhelming shock and grief," Lewis was quoted as saying by NBC2 News.

The Police Academy organised an eight-week course that included interactive classes, on-site visits and facility tours in order to "develop future leaders" through well-informed and civically-engaged residents, according to the city's website.

Sputnik

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