FBI to Conduct Mock Terrorist Exercise at Landmark Mall

If you happen to see a lot of police vehicles at Landmark Mall on your way to work Friday, no worries, it's only a drill.

The FBI, in cooperation with the City of Alexandria Police Department, will conduct training on Friday to simulate a complex terrorist attack in a public venue.  The exercise will begin at 7 a.m. and is expected to run until 10 a.m. at the Landmark Mall, 5801 Duke Street in Alexandria.

The exercise is designed to test response protocols and promote preparedness.  In 2013, all 56 FBI field offices hosted facilitated discussions and training exercises with law enforcement, public safety and private sector partners that focused on preparedness, response and recovery efforts necessary to effectively address the growing incidences of active shooter and mass casualty events. 

The FBI notes that every effort has been made to schedule the exercise so as not to interfere with normal mall operations or traffic patterns. During the exercise, the public may see law enforcement activity and is asked to avoid the area.  

The exercise was planned with the assistance of the Alexandria Police Department and the Howard Hughes Corporation, owner of Landmark Mall.