Newtown first responders carry heavy burdens
NEWTOWN, Conn. (AP) -- Hailed as heroes for their response to the Connecticut school shooting, some first responders are now struggling with emotions stirred by last week's massacre.
The state of Connecticut has deployed counselors to aid responders immediately after Friday's shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary, where 20 children and six staff members were gunned down.
Initially, only police were allowed to enter the building amid concerns about a second shooter. They are credited with helping to end the rampage by the 20-year-old gunman, who killed himself as officers stormed the building.
But the first responders in the small, close-knit community say they are wrestling with feelings of frustration, anguish and guilt over not being able to do more.
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