Following Round Rock's mass shooting on June 15 that killed two innocent bystanders and injured 14 other people, the fire department's Crisis Response Unit extended its hours to help provide mental health resources for those who needed the service.
ROUND ROCK, Texas (KXAN) -- Following Round Rock's mass shooting on June 15 that killed two innocent bystanders and injured 14 other people, the fire department's Crisis Response Unit extended its hours to help provide mental health resources for those who needed the service.
"For us, I think we have felt very sad about the events. But we have felt good about being able to help with the other responders and the rest of the community," Annie Burwell, the unit's program manager said.
Authorities have arrested two people so far in connection to the shooting, 17-year-old Ricky Thompson III and a juvenile. Police Chief Allen Banks has said from early on that investigators believe multiple people fired shots. Police said gunfire erupted after a fight between two different groups.
Police identified Ara Duke, 54, and Lyndsey Vicknair, 33, as the two victims of the shooting. Both are mothers.
The Crisis Response Unit launched in 2022. It's unique in that it primarily aims to help people who have witnessed crimes or feel otherwise impacted, versus people who are direct victims.
"Bystanders, witnesses, people who were upset or traumatized at the event," Burwell said in regards to the majority of individuals her team helped following the shooting. "Most of the calls we've been getting are parents who are concerned about their children. Children who were at the event and witnessed something that's frightening."
If someone who is a direct victim reaches out to the Crisis Response Unit, a team member will typically connect that individual with the police department's victim services staff.
Over the last 12 months, the unit averages 120 crisis calls per month. In the 10 days since the shooting, the City said the unit has already received 73 calls, which include initial calls and follow ups.
This is an initial step for care, Burwell said, and if the team thinks someone needs further help, they can connect community members to longer-term resources.
"We want to give people support now because when you give people support early on, they have a much better chance of doing well in the long run," Burwell said.
The unit's non-emergency response line is 512 218-5501. The Crisis Line, which operates from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. is 512 218-5516. For after-hours help, you can reach out to the SAMHSA Disaster Help Line at 1-800-985-5990.
This unit is not a substitute for immediate emergencies. If you find yourself in danger, the City said call 911. If the emergency is behavior-health-related, you can call 988 or text "Home" to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741.
