A Final Note on Last Week's HazMat Activities in Districts 5 and 19

When I receive a text message from a police or fire captain, I know it deserves immediate attention and naturally sparks a sense of dread. Last week there were multiple texts and emails as well as face-to-face conversations with Chief Carbon and Acting Chief Patterson regarding the initially hush-hush activities of our MFD HazMat team and MPD officers in support of state and federal officers. Addresses on Skyline Drive and Schroeder Road in District 19 and on Spooner Street in District 5 were cordoned off by police while the HazMat team applied their expertise.

Let me share comments that District 5 (and Council President) Vidaver included in her blog today:

"I want to acknowledge the trauma that so many in our district and District 19 have endured during the law enforcement and hazmat activities that sought to ensure two people were no longer a threat to our community. The Wisconsin State Journal ran a thorough account of the situation yesterday. I was concerned when I heard that members of hazmat crews were also harmed, and was pleased to learn from our Madison Fire Department leadership that our crews took all appropriate precautions and were unharmed; all of the exposed individuals were from the Department of Criminal Investigation (DCI). I sincerely hope for healing for all who were affected."