Jared Cano, during his 2011 arrest.When Assistant. Tampa Police Chief John Newman learned of the Connecticut shooting Friday, it brought to mind the Freedom High School plot in Tampa. "We'll never know exactly what could've happened at Freedom High School. I know everyone who worked on that case and I'm sure it crossed their minds Friday like it crossed mine," said Newman.
Two weeks ago, a judge sentenced Jared Cano to 15 years in prison for planning a massacre at the Tampa High School. Police say he planned to set off homemade explosive devices in the cafeteria and shoot students as they escaped into the courtyard. Cano even recorded a video, describing his plans and calling himself the future "Freedom High shooter."
Police were able to intervene, thanks to a student who came forward early with information.
Assistant Chief Newman said he wouldn't be surprised if investigators uncover warning signs in the Connecticut shooting, that were missed. "But in a free society we're hard pressed because that school sounded like it did everything it was supposed to do as far as target hardening and security. It's horrible absolutely horrible," said Newman.
Law enforcement agencies will be watching the Connecticut investigation closely. Newman says they routinely study mass shooting events to learn how to respond.
