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Press Release | Sept. 6, 2024

Coast Guard, partner agencies to hold active-shooter exercise on the Neuse River

WILMINGTON, N.C. — The Coast Guard, along with federal and state partners, are scheduled to hold an active-shooter/active threat full-scale exercise Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., in the vicinity of the Cherry Branch Ferry Terminal in Havelock, North Carolina.

Residents and community members around the Havelock area should expect to see large numbers of public safety personnel, vessels, sirens, and simulated activities. The drill includes evolutions at the terminal on a moored dedicated ferry as well as underway on the same ferry, weather dependent.

“Exercises, such as this one, provide an opportunity for partner agencies to train together and be prepared for potential threats that may impact our communities,” said Capt. Tim List, commander Coast Guard Sector North Carolina. “Although they may look real, these are simulated drills and we do not anticipate any adverse impacts to the public.”

This full-scale exercise is organized by the regional Area Maritime Security Committee and will simulate a response to an attack against the marine transportation system. It is designed to enhance regional response readiness to ensure public safety and security.

During the exercise, the Cherry Branch/Minnesott Beach Ferry will operate on a one-boat schedule. Please contact Cherry Branch Operations for departure times.

For additional information please contact the Coast Guard at 910-343-3880

-USCG-