Kelsey Fitzsimmons was acquitted of assault with a dangerous weapon on March 26, 2026, in North Andover, Massachusetts. The trial, presided over by Judge Jeffrey Karp, concluded with a verdict reached in less than two hours.
The charges stemmed from a shooting incident on June 30, 2025, during which Fitzsimmons was shot by Officer Patrick Noonan. The prosecution argued that Fitzsimmons had lied about the circumstances surrounding the incident, while Fitzsimmons maintained that she only pointed the gun at her own head in a suicide attempt.
Fitzsimmons had spent 103 days in jail following the incident and had been served a restraining order filed by her ex-fiancé shortly before the shooting. The trial lacked body camera footage from the police officers involved, which raised questions about the evidence presented.
During her testimony, Fitzsimmons expressed her emotional turmoil, stating, “I wanted to kill myself, me and my gun, no one else involved.” This statement was pivotal in the defense’s argument that her actions were not intended to harm others.
Judge Karp’s ruling emphasized the burden of proof required for a conviction. He stated, “I am left with a reasonable doubt and I am duty-bound to find that the Commonwealth has not met its burden to prove that Ms. Fitzsimmons committed an assault by means of a dangerous weapon.”
The trial began with opening statements and witness testimony on a Monday, highlighting the complexities surrounding the case. Fitzsimmons had waived her right to a jury trial, opting for a bench trial instead.
In a contrasting view, the prosecution’s attorney, James Gubitose, argued, “She got up on that stand and she lied to you. It’s scientifically and physically impossible for her story to have happened the way that she said.”
Following the verdict, Fitzsimmons’ attorney, Timothy Bradl, remarked, “This should be over. It should be an acquittal, your honor.” The case has drawn significant public interest due to its emotional and legal implications.
As the community reflects on the trial’s outcome, the events surrounding the shooting incident continue to resonate, raising discussions about mental health, legal standards, and police conduct.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any potential appeals or further legal actions following the acquittal.
