Mayor Shows Appreciation for January 25 Response

January 26, 2021

Mayor’s Message re: Threats against Vinita High School and the Vinita Community

First and foremost, I want to express my relief that our community was safe and spared from physical harm as yesterday’s events unfolded.

I appreciate Vinita Police Chief Joey Babcock and the entire Police Department for quickly responding to the threats. Our community was swiftly wrapped in the protective service of numerous other first responders and other law enforcement officials including Vinita Fire Chief Kevin Huxtable and the Vinita Fire Department, Craig County Sheriff Heath Winfrey and deputies, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, Officials with Craig County Emergency Management and numerous other local, tribal, state and federal agencies.

I am thankful for our community as we rallied together, followed the lead of our public safety officials, respected school lockdown and dismissal procedures, and fervently sent up our thoughts and prayers.

And, finally, I want to thank each and every faculty and staff member of Vinita Public Schools in whom we entrust the safety and well-being of our children and grandchildren daily. Crisis plans were activated, and caring adults led children to areas of safety even amongst their worst fears. For this, we are most grateful.