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Big changes in ABQ after CO shooting
More police patrols, some costumes banned
Updated: Sunday, 22 Jul 2012, 11:27 AM MDT
Published : Sunday, 22 Jul 2012, 11:19 AM MDT
ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - The ripple effects of the movie massacre nearly 450 miles away can be felt here at home from extra police on patrol to what you can or can't wear into theaters. Within 24 hours of the shootings, there were big changes at theaters across the nation.
(Photo Gallery: Aurora, Colo., theater massacre)
An armed gunman opened fire early Friday at a Denver area movie theater during a midnight showing of the new Batman "The Dark Knight" rises movie.
Twelve people were killed and dozens more injured in the worst shooting in cinema history. Officials have named James Holmes, 24, as the shooter.
"It's horrible, it's horrible. It's beyond words," said moviegoer Bruce Dannemeyer. "My hearts goes out to families who lost lives there."
It's a tragedy that Albuquerque Police are trying to prevent from happening here. Officers stepped up patrols at metro theaters immediately following the Colorado shootings. APD doesn't plan to stop the heightened security any time soon.
"We're not going to stop it today. We're not going to stop it tomorrow. We're going to keep this going," said Sgt. Ferris Simmons with the Albuquerque Police Department. "We're going to make sure everyone in the city is safe, and we're going to make sure to provide that security for everyone."
It's not just law enforcement making changes. Warner Bros., the same company that produced the new Batman movie, pulled its trailer for another upcoming flick, "Gangster Squad." The clip shows an eerie scene of armed gunmen firing into a crowded movie theater.
"That would be a potentially offensive to some. A lot of feelings are still raw right now," said moviegoer Zach Waddell.
Theater chains, including AMC and Regal Cinemas, are also taking unprecedented steps. AMC is banning costume masks and fake weapons. Regal also announced it's taking stricter measure on costume attire. Reports indicate Holmes dyed his hair red and was dressed as the character "Joker" from the Batman series.
In an age where dressing up is part of the movie experience, police said banning certain costumes may be a necessary step.
"I think it's very similar to banks. You can't walk into banks with your sunglasses and your hat on. I think this is the era that we're approaching," said Simmons.
Moviegoers said they agree.
"You don't really need to dress up to go to the theater. I'd prefer to see people as they are," said moviegoer May Araujo.
So far, police said there are no plans to check handbags or pockets when heading into local theaters.
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