Uvalde City Council to Discuss Independent Report on School Shooting Amidst Mayor and Police Chief Resignations
Uvalde Mayor Cody Smith announced his immediate resignation on Monday, citing health reasons. The mayor expressed his gratitude to the community for their support during his recovery from recent health issues, but did not provide details on his condition. This comes as the city is grappling with the aftermath of one of the deadliest school shootings in U.S. history.
The resignation follows an independent report commissioned by the city that defended the actions of local law enforcement during the Robb Elementary School shooting in May 2022. The report exonerated Uvalde officers following a botched response that resulted in 21 fatalities. Despite concerns for Smith’s health, he stepped down from his position leaving the city without a mayor.
Prior to Smith’s resignation, Uvalde Police Chief Daniel Rodriguez also announced his departure, effective April 6. The report found no wrongdoing by local officers who delayed confronting the armed gunman during the school shooting. Rodriguez submitted his resignation without mentioning the tragic event, citing a desire for a new chapter in his career.
The report was conducted by private investigator Jesse Prado who was compensated $97,000 for his services. During a city council meeting where the findings were presented, Prado faced backlash from victims’ families and community members who felt that he downplayed their suffering and ignored their concerns about police conduct during the shooting
