HARVEY – Across the country, law enforcement agencies are working to strengthen ties with the communities they serve during National Night Out.
Held annually on the first Tuesday of August, the event draws millions of residents from thousands of neighborhoods nationwide.
In Harvey, it’s a chance for families to connect with first responders, ask questions and build relationships — especially critical in the wake of recent violence.
What we know:
The family-friendly event is free and open to all ages, but it’s the youngest attendees who are beaming with excitement as they meet local police officers and firefighters — many for the first time.
Harvey police and fire departments are encouraging residents to stop by, interact with personnel and learn more about their work.
Also on site is Rescue 8, a first responder education and training organization. The group is engaging children through hands-on activities such as CPR training and dress-up sessions with police and fire uniforms.
Days After Mass Shooting :
This year’s National Night Out comes just days after gun violence shook the Harvey community.
Seven people, including a 4-year-old boy, were injured in a mass shooting during a house party. Authorities say someone at the gathering returned fire, fatally striking one of the alleged gunmen.
In what police believe was a retaliatory shooting, more than 30 rounds were fired and a man was later found dead in a minivan.
Police Chief Cameron Biddings said the incidents stem from an ongoing conflict among individuals and emphasized the need for peace.
“It really just helps when you have officers from the community when you can engage with the community… building those relationships,” Biddings said.
Rescue 8 founder Saquan Gholar also hopes the event can inspire youth to pursue productive paths, regardless of their past.
“It means a lot to me because I was actually a high school dropout. I dropped out of high school and I thought my dream was over. I want all these kids to know that if plan A doesn’t work out, there’s always a plan B. So we want to be that A and B and show them how it went,” Gholar said.
What’s next:
Harvey’s National Night Out runs until 7 p.m. Tuesday outside City Hall.
Similar events are being held in nearby communities. Residents are encouraged to check with their local police departments for details.