On December 27, 2021, Retired LEO Agent Ashley Ferris was involved in a critical incident. Ferris had been working required overtime after her 10hr day shift when an active shooter began a shooting spree through Denver and Lakewood. 

In approximately 45 minutes, the deranged individual traveled throughout the city of Denver and ultimately entered the neighboring city of Lakewood, shooting 7 individuals, killing 5, and engaging a total of 5 officers in gunfire. The shooter ultimately came into contact with Ferris and a gunfight ensued. 

Ferris was struck by gunfire in her lower abdomen, just a millimeter from her femoral artery, but the shooter was neutralized. Seriously wounded and on the ground, Agent Ferris continued fighting and shot and killed the suspect, ending his murderous rampage. Ferris was the 7th and final individual shot by the suspect.

The gunfight is only one part of the story. Had Ferris not been required to work overtime and faced the encounter that night, she had plans to take her own life that evening at home. 

This incident changed Ferris' life for the better. Ferris now shares this story entitled A Fighting Chance to help LEOs, other first responders, and the general community identify and combat signs of depression while developing resiliency through a focus on their greater purpose. Ferris shares a detailed account of the investigative piece of this critical incident, the impact of training on a critical incident, her efforts to recover, a battle with mental health, leadership successes and failures, and resiliency found through a focus on purpose. Ferris also includes considerations of peer support, tactical medical care, and post-critical incident management.

As we expand, A Fighting Chance will include presentations and trainings on other topics with guest speakers from various backgrounds in the first responder community. Stay tuned for updates!

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