Days after a report exonerated cops involved in the Robb Elementary School shooting, the Uvalde police chief abruptly announced his resignation.
In a surprising turn of events, Daniel Rodriguez, the long-serving police chief of Uvalde, has tendered his resignation. Rodriguez, who has dedicated 26 years to serving the community, announced his decision shortly before a scheduled meeting of the Uvalde City Council.
Rodriguez’s resignation comes amid scrutiny over his absence during the tragic events at Robb Elementary School on May 24, 2022. While the department’s response to the shooting was defended in a recent report, Rodriguez’s decision to step down less than a week after its release has raised questions.
In his resignation statement, Rodriguez expressed gratitude to his colleagues and city leaders but did not provide an explanation for his departure. His resignation will take effect on April 6, leaving the community to navigate a period of transition in police leadership.
The shooting at Robb Elementary School claimed the lives of 19 children and two teachers, sparking outrage and grief throughout Uvalde. Law enforcement agents, including Uvalde police officers, faced criticism for their delayed response to the gunman, leading to further investigations and legal actions.
Despite a city-commissioned report defending the department’s actions, a Department of Justice report highlighted failures in law enforcement’s handling of the situation. Ongoing criminal investigations and legal disputes have further complicated matters, leaving many in the community seeking accountability and closure.
Rodriguez’s resignation has reignited debates among city officials and victims’ families about the handling of the shooting and the path forward. As the search for a permanent replacement begins, Assistant Chief Homer Delgado will assume interim leadership of the police department.
The resignation of Chief Rodriguez marks a significant development in the aftermath of the Robb Elementary School shooting. As Uvalde continues to grapple with the tragedy and its aftermath, the community remains committed to seeking justice and healing for all those affected.