Active Shooter Symposium – Case Studies

Lewiston, ME | Boulder, CO | Monterey Park, CA | US University

Lewiston, Maine – October 25, 2023

On October 25, 2023, Robert Card, a 40-year-old Army Reservist, attacked two locations in Lewiston, Maine—a bowling alley and a restaurant—killing 18 people and injuring 13 more. Armed with a legally purchased semi-automatic rifle, Card evaded capture for two days before being found deceased.

Key Lessons Learned

Mental Health Intervention: Repeated warnings from Card’s family and military contacts about his mental health were not acted upon. Authorities missed opportunities to use Maine’s “yellow flag law” to intervene and remove firearms.
Incident Command & Coordination: The initial hours were described as “utter chaos” due to hundreds of officers self-deploying, causing communication breakdowns and command issues. This highlights the need for stronger incident management protocols and unified command.
Active Shooter Training: Reports recommend more coordinated training across agencies to unify tactics and communication.
Policy & Procedure Gaps: Maine’s “yellow flag law” was found to be cumbersome, with calls to streamline the process for firearm removal and intervention.
Information Sharing: Failures in communication between agencies about the shooter’s mental health and weapons access underscore the need for better systems.
Victim & Community Focus: Greater emphasis is needed on supporting victims and communities during and after crises.
Independent Review & Accountability: Independent evaluations and clear accountability standards are recommended.

Boulder, Colorado – King Soopers, March 22, 2021

On March 22, 2021, a gunman opened fire at the King Soopers supermarket in Boulder, Colorado, killing 10 people—including Boulder police officer Eric Talley—and injuring others. Officers confronted the heavily armed shooter inside the store; Officer Talley was killed while rushing in to save lives. The suspect was eventually subdued and arrested after a standoff.

Key Lessons Learned

Improved Communication: The incident underscored the need for seamless interoperability between agencies. Boulder has since enhanced communication systems.
Training & Preparedness: More frequent, multi-agency active shooter drills were implemented.
Mental Health Interventions: Greater focus on early identification and assistance for individuals in crisis.
Community Engagement & Education: Expanded public workshops and updated safety resources.
Victim Support: Strengthened resources for victims and families, including counseling and financial assistance.

Monterey Park, California – January 21, 2023

During Lunar New Year celebrations, a 72-year-old man opened fire at the Star Ballroom Dance Studio in Monterey Park, California, killing 11 people and wounding nine others. The attacker was later disarmed at a second location in Alhambra, preventing further violence, before taking his own life in Torrance as police closed in.

Key Lessons Learned

Improved Communication: While response was swift, delays in agency coordination highlight the need for seamless communication channels.
Community Alert Systems: Faster, clearer public notifications are needed to keep communities safe.
Inter-agency Coordination: Regular joint exercises ensure smooth cooperation across law enforcement and emergency services.
Mental Health Resources: Expanded intervention strategies are necessary for both prevention and community healing.
Cultural Sensitivity & Engagement: Responders emphasized culturally sensitive communication with diverse communities.
Victim Support Services: Long-term counseling, financial, and legal aid are essential for recovery.

Major American University – Case Study 4

Note: Out of respect, the name of the university will not be advertised here. This debriefing has never been presented at OTOA.

Generic Learning Outcomes

Understand the critical importance of rapid assessment and immediate action.
Foster effective coordination between law enforcement, fire, and medical agencies.
Manage personnel deployment to prevent chaos and duplication of resources.
Regulate parking to maintain access routes for emergency vehicles.
Establish clear command structures for efficient decision-making.
Apply crisis negotiation and de-escalation techniques.
Provide victim care, triage, and immediate medical aid.
Develop effective evacuation procedures.
Use technology (e.g., drones, apps) to improve situational awareness.
Understand legal and ethical considerations, including evidence preservation.
Build psychological resilience and support for responders and victims.
Engage and educate the community to strengthen preparedness.

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