[This post contains video, click to play]

The Normal Police Department is preparing for this year’s homecoming week after the fatal shooting at a “Pop-Up” party last year, that took place at the Circle K near Illinois State’s campus. Homecoming week kicks off October 13th, with the tailgate and football game happening on Saturday, October 18th. The police department worries about potential “Pop-Up” parties this year, but say they are doing everything they can to help keep the community safe. Normal Police Officer, Brad Park, says, “Well besides the pop up parties, there’s just the number of parties that we see so, it’s not just one party we can focus on. That’s why we’re asking for assistance from other agencies just to make sure we have the number of officers needed to handle any situation that comes up.” The police department is also asking for help from members of the community and students. Officers are calling residents to “say something if they see something”, to help protect the town and bring attention to issues before they get too dangerous. The department notes that homecoming week is meant for school spirit, not tragedy.