EMERGENCY ACTION PLANNING > Blog > Active Shooter > Las Vegas Ambush
Las Vegas Ambush
My thoughts, prayers and good wishes go out to those effected by the attack.
The active shooter event in Las Vegas does not satisfy the traditional active shooter scenario. This was an Ambush, a Far Ambush.
Ambush
[am-boo sh]
noun, Also, ambushment
- an act or instance of lying concealed so as to attack by surprise:
The highwaymen waited in ambush near the road.
- an act or instance of attacking unexpectedly from a concealed position.
- the concealed position itself:
They fired from ambush.
- those who attack suddenly and unexpectedly from a concealed position.
verb (used with object)
- to attack from ambush.
Dictionary.com
There are two types of Ambushes, Near and Far.
The two are defined on how far a combatant can throw a Hand-grenade about 30 meters or 90 feet.
Conventional Infantry wisdom is to;
- Immediately return fire/Assault the Ambush
- Get out of the Kill Zone/Flank the Ambush and kill them
- Take Cover/Return Fire, giving your flankers an opportunity
I will not launch into a tutorial on counter Ambush Tactics but will review the option based on what we do know now.
- Immediately return fire/Assault the Ambush (Near Ambush)
Not an option;
- The direction of incoming fire was not immediately known. And the Ambush was beyond 30 meters, it was a Far Ambush.
- Weapon systems were not readily available to the individuals inside the Kill Zone to return fire. A 240B would have been the ideal counter fire option if available.
- Return fire could have created collateral damage to residents of the adjoining rooms adjacent too, above and below the Ambush position.
That leaves options 2. Get out of the Kill Zone & 3. Take cover.
Since I was not there I will not attempt to armchair quarterback what should have been done. My thoughts, prayers and good wishes go out to those effected the attack.
I will refer you to an independent study course available through FEMA.
IS 907: Active Shooter: What You Can Do 
Course Summary
In the event of an active shooter situation:
Run
Attempt to evacuate.
Have an escape route and plan
Leave your belongings
Keep your hands visible
Hide
Find a place to hide
Block entry and lock doors
Remain quiet and silence your cell phone or pager
Fight
As a last resort, try to incapacitate the shooter
Act with physical aggression
Remember to always:
Take note of the two nearest exits in any facility you visit.
Be aware of your environment and any possible dangers.
CALL 911 WHEN IT IS SAFE TO DO SO!
Active Shooter Pocket-Sized Reference Card;
Till Next Time
“Be Safe”