What are the five stages of an active shooter incident?

The five stages of an active shooter incident provide a framework for understanding how such incidents typically progress, allowing organizations and individuals to develop appropriate responses and preventive measures. The correct sequence of stages is primarily focused on the mindset and actions of the perpetrator leading up to and during the incident.

In the correct answer, which outlines the stages as Fantasy, Planning, Preparation, Approach, and Implement, each term reflects a crucial phase in the development and execution of an active shooter scenario.

• Fantasy involves the shooter envisioning their attack and often leads to a desire to carry it out. This stage can tip into the motivation behind the attack.

• Planning refers to the time when the individual begins to make detailed considerations regarding how they will execute the act, including potential targets and methods.

• Preparation includes activities such as gathering weapons, scouting the intended location, or developing the logistics necessary to carry out the attack.

• Approach is the phase where the shooter moves towards executing the plan, which may involve the final moments before the incident occurs.

• Implement signifies the actual act of shooting, where the attacker executes their plans.

Understanding these stages is essential for training personnel in threat assessment and response strategies to minimize risks and enhance