In a significant development, Kelsey Fitzsimmons was acquitted of assault with a dangerous weapon during her trial in North Andover, Massachusetts, on March 26, 2026. The trial, presided over by Judge Jeffrey Karp, concluded after a brief deliberation of less than two hours.
The charges stemmed from a shooting incident on June 30, 2025, where Fitzsimmons was shot by Officer Patrick Noonan. Fitzsimmons had spent 103 days in jail following the incident, which had left her emotionally devastated after being served a restraining order by her ex-fiancé.
During the trial, Fitzsimmons testified that she only pointed the gun at her own head in a suicide attempt, stating, “I wanted to kill myself, me and my gun, no one else involved.” This testimony was crucial as it shaped the narrative of her defense.
The prosecution, however, argued that Fitzsimmons had lied about the incident, with attorney James Gubitose asserting, “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.”
Despite the prosecution’s claims, Judge Karp expressed doubt about the evidence presented, stating, “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.”
Fitzsimmons had waived her right to a jury trial, opting for a bench trial instead. The trial lacked body camera footage from the police officers involved, which could have provided additional clarity to the events that transpired.
As the community reflects on the trial’s outcome, the emotional toll on Fitzsimmons and her family is evident. Timothy Bradl, Fitzsimmons’ attorney, remarked, “This should be over. It should be an acquittal, your honor.”
The case has sparked discussions about mental health and the complexities surrounding domestic situations, highlighting the need for support and understanding within the community.
As the dust settles, Kelsey Fitzsimmons walks away from the courtroom with a fresh start, while the community continues to process the implications of this high-profile case.
