Ex-Massachusetts officer acquitted after alleging suicide attempt

Former Massachusetts Police Officer Acquitted in Shooting Case

A former police officer in Massachusetts has been found not guilty of attempting to shoot a fellow officer. Kelsey Fitzsimmons, aged 29 and previously with the North Andover police, faced charges related to an incident on June 25, 2025, when she allegedly aimed a firearm at officer Patrick Noonan.

Fitzsimmons staunchly denied the accusations, asserting that she was in a suicidal state when police visited her home to enforce a restraining order filed by her ex-fiancée. “I didn’t want to involve anyone. My intention was to end my life,” she stated, refuting claims that she aimed a gun at Officer Noonan.

Following a thorough review, Judge Jeffrey Karp announced the verdict after almost four hours of deliberation, mentioning that the evidence did not support the charge of assault with a dangerous weapon. “I feel that both Officer Noonan and Fitzsimmons, along with others connected to the tragic incident on that day, needed a comprehensive explanation before a decision could be reached,” he noted.

Fitzsimmons was involved in a tense confrontation that resulted in her being shot. Initially indicted on multiple charges related to the incident, only one count of assault with a dangerous weapon was ultimately pursued by a grand jury.

During her testimony, Fitzsimmons recounted her feelings during the shooting, describing a state of shock and an overwhelming sensation throughout her body. “It didn’t hurt the way you might think. I was aware of everything even though I could barely breathe,” she recalled.

Following the shooting, as she was transported to the hospital, Fitzsimmons reportedly expressed a desire to die. Despite the serious situation, her reaction was cited during the trial as a contentious point regarding the decisions made by Officer Noonan during the incident.

The defense suggested that Noonan’s response might have been too hasty. “He walked into a situation likely focused on saving a life, but acted without fully grasping what was happening,” suggested Fitzsimmons’ attorney. On the other hand, the prosecution supported Noonan’s actions, arguing evidence contradicted Fitzsimmons’ claims and that his training was evident in the chaotic circumstances.

In response to the not guilty verdict, the Essex County District Attorney’s Office released a statement expressing disappointment and emphasizing the complexities involved in cases surrounding law enforcement, particularly those concerning restraining orders.