NORTH ANDOVER, MA — A shocking and deeply unsettling incident unfolded Monday evening in a quiet North Andover neighborhood, when an off-duty police officer was shot and wounded by a fellow officer during an armed confrontation at her home. Authorities have identified the injured officer as Kelsey Fitzsimmons, a 28-year-old member of the North Andover Police Department and a recent new mother.

According to Essex County District Attorney Paul Tucker, the incident occurred as three officers arrived at Fitzsimmons’ residence to serve her with an abuse prevention restraining order. During a press conference held Tuesday, Tucker described the confrontation as both tragic and complex.

“While one of the officers was escorting Ms. Fitzsimmons during the service of the court order, an armed confrontation took place,” Tucker explained. In the course of that confrontation, one of the responding officers discharged their firearm, striking Fitzsimmons once.

Emergency responders quickly administered aid, and Fitzsimmons was transported to a local hospital where she is reported to be in stable condition. Authorities have not publicly detailed the extent of her injuries, but officials have confirmed that her wound is not believed to be life-threatening.

The nature of the confrontation—why a weapon was drawn, and what exactly led to the shooting—is under intense investigation by the Essex County District Attorney’s Office in coordination with Massachusetts State Police. The identities of the officers involved in the service of the restraining order have not been released.

A Department in Shock

The North Andover Police Department has not yet issued a formal public statement beyond confirming the involvement of one of its officers. Sources close to the department describe the internal mood as one of disbelief and concern, particularly given Fitzsimmons’ reputation within the force and her status as a young mother.

Fitzsimmons, who joined the department several years ago, has been described by colleagues as committed, capable, and deeply engaged with community policing efforts. News of the incident has stunned many in the tight-knit law enforcement community.

“She’s someone who always wanted to serve, to make a difference,” said one fellow officer, who asked not to be named. “No one saw this coming.”

Legal and Procedural Questions Ahead

The incident raises serious legal and procedural questions—not only about the restraining order being served, but also the protocols followed during its execution. Abuse prevention orders, often referred to as 209A restraining orders in Massachusetts, are typically civil court orders designed to protect individuals from harm. They are often issued in cases involving allegations of domestic violence or threats.

In this case, however, it remains unclear what prompted the restraining order against Fitzsimmons, or whether she had been informed about it in advance. District Attorney Tucker has stated that further details will be released as the investigation unfolds.

“We are committed to a thorough and transparent investigation,” Tucker said. “At this point, all facts are being carefully reviewed.”

Community Concerns and Support

As news spreads through the community, residents of North Andover have expressed a mix of concern and compassion—both for the officers involved and for the potential implications of such an incident in a town known for its relative peace.

Support for Fitzsimmons has begun to emerge on social media, with friends and colleagues calling for patience and compassion as the facts come to light. Some have noted the immense pressures faced by law enforcement officers, particularly those balancing the demands of duty with personal challenges like new motherhood.

Mental health advocates have also weighed in, emphasizing the importance of support structures within law enforcement agencies. “This is a human tragedy on multiple levels,” said one local advocate. “It’s critical that the officer receives care, both physically and emotionally, and that the full truth is pursued with dignity.”

What Comes Next

The officer who fired the shot has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation—a standard protocol in police-involved shootings. Investigators are expected to review body camera footage, if available, interview witnesses, and analyze ballistic and forensic evidence from the scene.

As the case develops, many questions remain unanswered: What led to the issuance of the restraining order? Why did the confrontation escalate so quickly? And what does this mean for the future of all officers involved?

For now, North Andover awaits clarity—and hopes for healing.

Kelsey Fitzsimmons, a young officer and mother, faces a long recovery—physically, legally, and emotionally. The incident has cast a heavy shadow over the community and highlighted the need for transparency, support, and accountability in law enforcement practices.

This is a developing story.