Full Breakdown
Trial of Kelsey Fitzsimmons: Officer Shot by Colleague Amid Restraining Order Incident
3/26/2026, 8:12:41 AM
Overview of the Incident
Kelsey Fitzsimmons, a former North Andover police officer, is on trial for assault with a dangerous weapon after being shot by fellow officer Patrick Noonan during a confrontation at her home on June 30, 2025. The incident occurred while officers were serving Fitzsimmons with a restraining order obtained by her then-fiancé, Justin Aylaian, which required her to surrender custody of their four-month-old son and her firearms. Fitzsimmons has pleaded not guilty, asserting that she intended to harm herself rather than anyone else.
Testimonies and Key Events
During the trial, Noonan testified that Fitzsimmons pointed her service weapon at him and pulled the trigger, but the gun did not fire because there was no round in the chamber. He claimed that Fitzsimmons then attempted to load the gun again, prompting him to shoot her in self-defense. "I was yelling at her, 'Don't do it, don't do it,'" Noonan stated, describing the moments leading up to the shooting.
In contrast, Fitzsimmons testified that she never aimed the gun at Noonan, but rather at herself during a mental health crisis. "I wanted to take my own life. I never pointed the gun at a fellow officer. It never happened," she said. Fitzsimmons described feeling overwhelmed by the situation, stating, "I lost everything," referring to her son, fiancé, and career.
Defense and Prosecution Arguments
The prosecution, led by Assistant District Attorney James Gubitose, framed the incident as a near-fatal assault, emphasizing that Noonan's training and quick response saved his life. Gubitose argued that Fitzsimmons posed a significant threat when she pointed the gun at Noonan.
Conversely, Fitzsimmons' defense attorney, Timothy Bradl, contended that the former officer was in a state of emotional distress due to postpartum depression and was attempting suicide. Bradl argued that Fitzsimmons' actions were misinterpreted as a threat to Noonan, stating, "The idea of harming them, the evidence will show, is ludicrous." He highlighted Fitzsimmons' intent to be alone with her firearm to end her life, asserting that she was trying to get the officers to leave her room.
Witness Accounts
Several witnesses provided testimony regarding the events of that day. Officer Timothy Houston, who was present during the incident, corroborated Noonan's account of the shooting. However, he also noted Fitzsimmons' emotional state, recalling her saying, "I'm sorry" after being shot. Other witnesses included Fitzsimmons' mother and a friend, who testified about her mental health struggles leading up to the incident.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
There are discrepancies between the accounts of Noonan and Fitzsimmons regarding the sequence of events and the nature of Fitzsimmons' actions. While Noonan maintains that Fitzsimmons aimed the gun at him, Fitzsimmons insists she was only trying to harm herself. The absence of body camera footage further complicates the case, leaving the judge to rely on witness testimonies and physical evidence.
What's Next
The trial is expected to conclude soon, with closing arguments scheduled to take place shortly. Judge Jeffrey Karp will ultimately decide Fitzsimmons' fate, as she waived her right to a jury trial. The outcome will hinge on the interpretation of the evidence presented and the credibility of the testimonies heard throughout the proceedings.
Verbatim Quotes
- "I wanted to take my own life. I never pointed the gun at a fellow officer. It never happened." — Kelsey Fitzsimmons
- "Kelsey, don't do it, don't do it." — Patrick Noonan, recalling his commands during the incident.
- "The idea of harming them, the evidence will show, is ludicrous." — Timothy Bradl, defense attorney.
