WINTHROP – Terence Delehanty, Winthrop Police Chief who also serves as the community’s interim Town Manager wishes to provide an update regarding security precautions at Thursday’s candlelight vigil, which follows the shocking and hateful murders that occurred in the community last weekend.
“The Winthrop Police Department is treating the security of this vigil and the safety of mourners and attendees with upmost care and consideration. We have brought in the vast and exceptional mutual aid resources at our disposal and are in constant communication with the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office and the Massachusetts State Police,” Chief Delehanty said. “As we are expecting relatives of both murder victims to attend and speak, it is our aim to provide a proper, safe and solemn platform on which to grieve and remember the lives lost.”
There will be a significant police presence, and security will be a top priority to ensure a safe and secure vigil. Absolutely no backpacks, handbags, coolers or bags of any kind will be permitted. While there have not been specific threats received against the vigil, the Winthrop Police Department and its public safety partners are taking all precautions.
Mutual aid resources including NEMLEC member agencies, State Police and Boston Police will be assisting Winthrop Police. The department has also been in communication with federal law enforcement agencies.
The vigil will have a limited speaking program at the request of the victims’ families. The Town of Winthrop wishes to provide a proper forum for these families to remember and mourn their loved ones, and the vigil has been planned with significant input from the families.
Members of the area’s inter-faith religious community will lead and introduce the vigil program.
Town offices and the Winthrop Public Library will close at 4 p.m. on Thursday to prepare for the service.
Representatives from a multitude of support services, including the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office, religious organizations, the Winthrop Public Health Crisis Intervention Team, the East Boston Neighborhood Health Center and the Boston Public Health Commission, will be present to assist residents who may be experiencing emotional responses, as well as provide support and resources for dealing with trauma.
School adjustment counselors and other school representatives also will be present at the vigil. The Winthrop Public Health Department will be on-site and available in the Harvey Hearing Room on the ground floor of Town Hall to connect with residents in need of support or counseling services.
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