The Auto Care Association and the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA), co-owners of the annual AAPEX event in Las Vegas, have issued a joint statement regarding the tragic events here this week and the association’s efforts to enhance the safety of exhibitors and attendees at AAPEX later this month.

“We extend heartfelt condolences to the victims, their families and all those affected by the events that took place on Oct. 1,” said MEMA President Steve Handschuh. “AAPEX continuously evaluates show security measures to strengthen event participant safety. The associations and show managers are actively engaged this week with local officials, federal agencies and venue security professionals, seeking expert advice on AAPEX security.”

“We are investigating and pursuing additional security protocols to enhance current AAPEX security practices during our events the week of Oct. 31 through Nov. 3,” said Auto Care Association President Bill Hanvey. “We will communicate these measures as they materialize in the event that they might inconvenience our exhibitors and attendees, to allow them to plan accordingly.”