What is the number one goal when responding to an active shooter situation?

The foremost goal when responding to an active shooter situation is to stop the killing. This approach prioritizes the immediate protection of human life by attempting to neutralize the threat posed by the shooter. Law enforcement officers are trained to engage the shooter as quickly as possible to prevent further loss of life, as every second counts in these high-stress situations.

Focusing on stopping the killing highlights the urgency of the scenario and the need for rapid and decisive action. While restricting access to the area, evacuating civilians, and containing the shooter are also important tactics in managing the overall incident, the immediate priority is to eliminate the threat to victims. This principle reflects critical response training across law enforcement agencies and emphasizes the importance of rapid intervention in saving lives during an active threat.