Off-Duty Officer Shot During Confrontation Over Restraining Order

An off-duty police officer in Massachusetts was injured in a firearm incident during a dispute related to a court-issued restraining order. Kelsey Fitzsimmons, 28, a North Andover officer and new mother, was shot once during an encounter at her home on Monday evening, according to authorities.

Three officers arrived to serve Fitzsimmons a standard abuse prevention order under the state’s 209A law, designed to protect victims from harm. During the process, an armed confrontation ensued, resulting in one officer discharging their weapon, striking Fitzsimmons. She was transported by helicopter to a hospital in Boston and remains in stable condition.

The restraining order included provisions requiring the police to confiscate any firearms found inside her residence. Court documents indicate that Fitzsimmons, who holds a criminal justice degree and has served with North Andover PD for approximately 18 months, was aware that serving the order could be risky because she is a licensed gun owner. The court expressed awareness of potential danger, noting concerns about her reaction to being served.

At the time of the incident, Fitzsimmons was on administrative leave, a status not fully explained, but she had recently filed to have her service weapon returned. It is not confirmed whether she was armed during the confrontation, and authorities have not disclosed who fired the shot that wounded her. The officer involved in discharging their weapon has more than 20 years of experience with the department.

Fitzsimmons is engaged to a local firefighter, and she has a young son born in February. Supporters and colleagues are awaiting further updates on her recovery following this unexpected and violent event.