Haunts Come Early At

Police Explorers Haunted House

By Kendra Bobowick

From around a dark corner came the sound of power tools and screaming…

With a glimpse behind a curtain, guests at the haunted house hosted by the Newtown Police Explorers last Saturday at the Teen Center on Church Hill Road caught a mad scientist severing the limbs — plastic props — off a patient.

Down dark hallways were sounds of moaning from behind curtains and as the eerie noises faded a goblin leapt out at guests, glow-in-the-dark markings covering his body. Quietly, the demon followed closely behind visitors who were unaware of his presence until they turned away from another fright that jumped out from a corner, turning them around.

In another room were younger children who were indulging in the fun, and not the freaky, side of Halloween.

Officer Maryhelen McCarthy led the way toward Kiddie Land, where tables held crafts and games for young children. Ten-month-old Paige Keane sat in her stroller while her sister Alexis and their father David Keane painted a pumpkin. Explorers Alexandra Avila and Sophie Chiravelli were ready to greet guests and get them started with games and crafts.

Also helping with the Police Explorers event were Officers Felicia Figol and Todd Dingee, Bill Hull, Matt Wood, and Richard Monckton. Ms Figol said, “We’re proud of the [Explorers]. They have done a lot. I hope more kids join.”

Waiting their turn in the haunted house were Rebecca Filirto and Taegan Smith, who had dressed for Halloween. Welcoming them was explorer Emily Clark, who sat outside with Joe, the skeleton seated behind a table as guests approached.