Active assailant incidents are no longer viewed as low-probability, isolated events. Organizations across industries are recognizing the need for specialized coverage. Not just for catastrophic loss, but for the very real operational, financial, and human impacts that follow threats and incidents.
The following real-world examples illustrate the value of active assailant insurance and how this coverage responds in practical, meaningful ways.
1. Multi-Family Condominium: Proactive Protection After a Stalking Threat
A multi-family condominium association faced a serious shooting threat against certain employees. While no physical violence had yet occurred, the situation created significant concern among property management.
Covered response:
- Reimbursement for armed security services deployed on-site
- Ongoing protection to deter escalation and reassure residents
Why it matters
This example highlights that active assailant coverage isn’t limited to incidents with injuries or fatalities. It can respond to credible threats, helping insureds take proactive steps to protect their communities and reduce liability exposure.
2. Church: Safeguarding a Vulnerable Community
A senior pastor at a church experienced a stalking-related threat. With regular weekly services and community events, leadership needed to act quickly to ensure safety without disrupting operations.
Covered response:
- Reimbursement for armed security personnel during services and events
Why it matters
Places of worship are particularly vulnerable due to their open-door nature. This claim demonstrates how coverage supports faith-based organizations in maintaining a safe environment while continuing their mission.
3. Healthcare Organization: Supporting Employees After a Threat
A healthcare company faced an active shooter event that deeply impacted staff morale and attendance. While operations continued, many employees were fearful of returning to work.
Covered response:
- Employee meals during extended safety measures
- Mileage reimbursement for staff attending active shooter training
- Paid time off (PTO) for employees unwilling or unable to work due to fear
- Costs for temporary staffing to maintain operations
Why it matters
The financial impact of a threat goes far beyond physical damage. Workforce disruption, employee well-being, and continuity of care are critical concerns, especially in healthcare settings. This example shows how coverage can stabilize operations while supporting employees during a difficult time.
4. Higher Education Institution: Comprehensive Response to a Tragic Event
A higher education institution experienced a fatal active assailant incident between two students on a sports team, affecting its campus community.
Covered response:
- Public relations support to manage communications and protect reputation
- Death benefits and funeral expense for victim
- Travel and meals for the victim’s family
Why it matters
In the aftermath of a tragedy, institutions must respond with compassion, transparency, and care. Active assailant coverage provides essential financial resources to support victims’ families and manage the broader impact on the institution’s reputation and community trust.
Key Takeaways
These examples reinforce several important points:
- Coverage extends beyond physical damage to include security, employee support, and crisis management
- Credible threats can trigger a response, not just confirmed incidents
- Workforce and reputational impacts can have significant costs
- Active Assailant/Workplace Violence Insurance coverage helps organizations recover faster and more effectively
About McGowan’s Active Shooter/Workplace Violence Insurance
As risks evolve, Active Assailant insurance is not just about worst-case scenarios. It’s about preparedness, resilience, and protecting people when it matters most.
McGowan Programs’ Active Shooter/Workplace Violence Insurance can help a broad spectrum of organizations including restaurants, bars, habitational, houses of worship, hospitals, manufacturing, schools and universities prepare and protect.
For additional questions or to get a customized quote, email activeshooter@mcgowanprograms.com.