If I knew there was only one guy and I thought I could effect and end to the slaughter, yes. If I wasn’t sure how many people there were and I might get caught in a cross-fire that would only have resulted in my death and additional shots being scattered around the heavily occupied wing of the school, then no.
If you’re over 30 feet away from the perp, it would be very hard to hit him. With his rifle he could take you out with a shot or two.
Folks, I’m really sorry there weren’t 18 deaths total. I know there are quite a few folks here that are disappointed.
The thing is D1, I know I would have gone in, even with the unknowns.
That may sound like “Keyboard Commando” talk to you, but I could not stand by, armed, even if I knew he had more bullets and more powerful weapons, while kids were being killed. I would have to at least try. I know by charging at most people shooting in this situation that just the act of charging at them and shooting at them will greatly disconcert the shooter. Even if it did not, I would have to fall back on the idea that you confront evil, you don’t let it flourish.
Its better to die a brave death than to live a cowards life.
There should have been 18 deaths and at least three suicides.
The guy had a weapon, heard shots and did nothing but phone it in... how appropriate to use that time-worn cliche. Any LEO worth his moral salt would have drawn his weapon and gone in toward the sound. It is a calculated risk, but that is why he has the badge of authority and a sidearm to enforce it.