When Escape Isn’t an Option: Should You Fight or Submit?
Every second counts when lives are on the line. In an active threat situation—whether it’s an armed robbery, home invasion, or public shooting—you may not always have the option to run or hide. So what then?
The question becomes simple but terrifying: Should you fight or submit?
Government data and real-world case studies strongly suggest that resisting—when done with preparation and strategy—can improve your odds of survival. This blog explores key findings from federal sources, including the FBI’s guidance, expert analysis, and actual news stories, to answer the question: when you’re out of options, is fighting back your best chance?
We’ll also explore how the right mindset, training, and legal concealed carry can empower you to act decisively.
FBI: “Run, Hide, Fight” — Fight or Submit: Fighting is a Last Resort, But a Real One
The FBI’s official guidance in active shooter situations is straightforward:
- Run if there’s a safe escape path.
- Hide if running is not possible.
- Fight only as a last resort when your life is in immediate danger.
But make no mistake: the FBI’s endorsement of the “fight” option is not symbolic. The Bureau has analyzed dozens of incidents where civilians fought back against active shooters and attackers. Their “Run. Hide. Fight.” training video demonstrates that fighting back can interrupt or even end an active shooting, especially before police arrive.
The Department of Homeland Security echoes this strategy, urging civilians to use any means necessary—chairs, fire extinguishers, or bare hands—to stop attackers in worst-case scenarios.
Statistics Show Submitting Isn’t Always Safer
Many people believe compliance is the safest option when faced with violence. But the numbers tell a different story:
- According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, resistance can lower the risk of injury during a violent encounter.
- In robberies, victims who resist without weapons are injured in 25% of cases. But those who resist with a firearm are injured in less than 1%.
- In rape and sexual assault cases, resistance—especially physical—can reduce the chance of the crime being completed.
The data suggests that strategic resistance often results in better outcomes than passive submission, particularly if the victim has training or a weapon.
Real-World Cases: Civilians Who Fought Back and Survived
The Greenwood Park Mall Hero (2022)
In Indiana, Elisjsha Dicken legally carrying a handgun stopped a mass shooter within 15 seconds of the first shot. He was hailed as a hero after saving countless lives. Dicken had no military or law enforcement background—just a permit and preparation.
Texas Church Shooting (2019)
Armed parishioner Jack Wilson, a firearms instructor, neutralized a gunman in under 6 seconds at West Freeway Church of Christ. The attacker had already killed two people, but many more lives would have been lost if not for Wilson’s rapid response.
Long Island Home Invasion (2021)
In Nassau County, a homeowner fought back against multiple intruders using legally owned firearms. While police arrived quickly, it was the homeowner’s immediate resistance that protected his family.
These aren’t isolated cases. According to the Crime Prevention Research Center, armed civilians stop active shooters in over 50% of incidents when allowed to legally carry.
You Are Your Own First Responder
Police response times in urban areas average 7 to 10 minutes; in rural areas, it can be much longer. According to the FBI’s Active Shooter Report, most attacks end in under 5 minutes, many in less than 2.
When seconds count and the question is Fight or Submit, remember, you are your own first responder.
That doesn’t mean everyone should fight. But it does mean you should be prepared, trained, and legally equipped to make the right decision in the moment.
Use of Force and Castle Doctrine in New York
Understanding when and how you can legally use force is vital. In New York, Penal Law Article 35 outlines the justifications for using physical and deadly force. Knowing these boundaries could keep you out of prison—even if you save lives.
For home defense scenarios, New York’s interpretation of the Castle Doctrine allows a person to use deadly force without retreating if they are inside their dwelling. However, the doctrine has limits. For example, pursuing a fleeing intruder may remove your legal protection, as seen in the tragic case of Youssef Abdel-Gawad in Huntington Station.
To better understand your rights, read our in-depth post: Castle Doctrine in NY: Know Your Rights and When You’ve Gone Too Far
Fight or Submit? It’s About Mental Preparation: Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Fighting back successfully isn’t about size or strength. It’s about mindset, tactics, and preparation.
- Mentally rehearse scenarios.
- Know your surroundings and exits.
- Take a self-defense or firearms training course.
You don’t need to be a black belt. You need to be willing and able.
Why Legal Concealed Carry Makes a Difference
Firearms in the hands of trained, legal carriers save lives. Yet New York’s strict laws discourage or delay citizens from getting licensed. Thankfully, recent Supreme Court rulings have changed that.
More New Yorkers are now eligible to apply for a NY Concealed Carry Permit. The 18-hour training requirement isn’t just a hurdle—it’s an opportunity to become safer, smarter, and more effective.
Get Trained: Your Life (and Others’) May Depend on It
At NY Safe Inc., we train hundreds of New Yorkers each year to:
- Understand NY Penal Law 35 on Use of Force
- Shoot effectively under stress
- Practice de-escalation and situational awareness
Learn more with these guides:
Conclusion: Prepare, Train, and Know When to Fight
Fight or Submit? No one wants to face violence. But when the worst happens, hope is not a plan. Submitting may seem safer, but the statistics say otherwise.
The best way to increase your odds? Train. Prepare. Get licensed.
You might only get one chance to act. Make sure it counts.
Join our next NY Concealed Carry class and take the first step toward becoming your own protector.
Because when running and hiding aren’t options, the fight may be the only thing standing between life and death.
Legal Disclaimer: The information in this blog post is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. NY Safe Inc. strongly recommends consulting with a qualified attorney regarding your specific legal rights and obligations concerning use of force, self-defense, and firearms possession in New York or any other jurisdiction. All decisions in self-defense situations carry legal consequences. Always seek proper training and stay informed about current laws.
No responses yet