Chicago authorities will participate in an “emergency response exercise” Thursday morning at Wrigley Field.
The Chicago Police Department and Chicago Cubs will conduct the exercise between 7 a.m. and 2 p.m., according to a release from the Chicago Cubs. Simulated ammunition and flash bangs will be used during the mock emergency, the Cubs said.
"It's sad that it's come to that, but I'm happy that they're training for something like that, absolutely," said Ken Keefer, who lives near Wrigley Field. "I think it could only help in case something does occur."
The exercise will involve CPD, Wrigley Field personnel, the Office of Emergency Management and Communications, the Chicago Fire Department and Emergency Medical Services.
"This exercise has been in the works for months," Cubs spokesperson Julian Green said in a statement, "and is not in response to any recent incident."
"The goal is to simulate a large scale incident and response at a major sporting facility. We are happy to partner with law enforcement to help ensure the safest and secure environment for our fans and the Lakeview community," Green added.
For the duration of the exercise, Waveland Avenue will be closed from Clifton to Kenmore Aves to both vehicles and pedestrians, authorities said.
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The Cubs return to Wrigley Field Friday, to face off against the Texas Rangers at 1:20 p.m.
