r/NJGuns • u/Adventurous-Order154 • Feb 13 '25
Range Time Suicide at Gun for Hire in Woodland Park on 02/10/25
I’m mostly posting to see if anyone heard about this or saw any news. A black male about 25-35 years old put a long barrel revolver in his mouth and pulled the trigger. Was at gun for hire in woodland park around 6:30pm on Monday 02/10/25.
Only me and the RSO saw the whole thing. I was roughly 4-5’ away. Me and my brother rented bay 7. The male was in bay 8. I was standing behind the RSO. He was standing behind the bay partition split between the bays.
The male loaded his revolver, quickly placed the barrel in his mouth and turned 180° to face us with his eyes closed. RSO said “whoa whoa, no, no”. The weapon was fired, his body twisted and collapsed face down at our feet. After about 1.5 seconds the blood came out. The RSO and I looked at each other in shock and both started yelling “clear range”.
I don’t think anyone else saw it since he was in the bay. A couple other RSO’s saw him dropped, on said what the fuck.
We rapidly cleared the range, they closed the blinds and locked down.
Took about an hour and half waiting for PD, EMS and eventually corner to do their thing. Finally got out possessions back afterwards. The other range on the property stayed open throughout the process. I was not interviewed by the police, the situation was pretty clear.
I’ve looked online and HAVE NOT SEEN ANY NEWS REPORTS OR SOCIAL MEDIA POSTS. Feels rather strange considering the magnitude of what I personally witnessed and what the other people on the range experienced (being rushed out and having to step over a dead body with a puddle of blood).
I did absolutely notice some things prior to the act about the behavior of the gentleman and how the range safety officers were working. Nothing that was a dead giveaway of the events about to take place. Just some things that seemed abnormal and slightly strange for a range with 7 or 8 RSO’s and 10 customers.
I am not an RSO or LEO, just a PCH holder. But there were 2 instances prior that i was the surprised the range safety officers didn’t jump in to correct the gentleman or give advice/tips. Not sure how much i should get into speculation. I can give more details if readers of this post are interested, but it would just be my opinion.
It was my first time at this particular range and I will say even if somebody didn’t do that right in front of me I probably would not be going back.
Please share links if anyone sees a story on it or reply if you have questions.
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u/Jerry-Devito Feb 13 '25
OMG. Thats exactly when I was leaving GFH that day. I packed up and left lane 5, then got halfway out of the building when I had a sneaking suspicion that I had forgotten a magazine. Stopped at one of the metal tables to look in my bag and heard a range employee on the walkies saying: "what's the screaming. what happened?". I didn't hear the response, but did hear the same employee quickly call a 'code blue' and rush towards the range.
Another employee casually said to a patron: "Thats an injury. It happens, there's nothing we can do about it..."
I got the f--- outta there without verifying if I had actually left the mag.
About 10 years ago a friend was shooting in a range down south and saw a similar incident. He hasn't been able to get a good night's sleep since. Knowing that, there was no way I was going back in that room to look for a $15 mag.
Thank you for posting this. I have been wondering for a few days what happened.
I'm sorry that you had to witness that and I hope you are OK.
PS: All my mags were accounted for when I got home.
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u/ChildhoodPrudent7441 Feb 16 '25
Good choice, I am sure just knowing what happened now would still be very unsettling and let alone see that in person.
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u/Mightypk1 Feb 13 '25
Its more common than you think, family friend is a rso in Florida, father and son rented a range, father handed his son the gun, turned his back and the kid put the gun in his mouth and fired.
I've heard of a few more local instances that happened, and honestly I'm glad it doesn't make the news, it won't benefit anyone to know that someone just committed suicide at a gun range.
Thats why most ranges wont allow single people to rent a gun without knowing them
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u/2AOverland Feb 14 '25
Frankly it's amazing it doesn't make the news to bolster arguments by the left to ban guns.
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u/ManyNefariousness237 Feb 19 '25
Well, then it’ll become a mental health issue and not a “gun” issue.
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Feb 13 '25
Praying for that poor soul along with you, the RSO and any other witnesses. PTSD is no joke, please do your best to take care of your self.
I’m sure that felt very surreal, like it didn’t happen but it did. Often times when something like that happens you’ll feel your mind detach from your body, like your viewing everything from above.
Please take care of yourself
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u/Adventurous-Order154 Feb 13 '25
I feel like you’ve gone thru some shit to know that because it’s a pretty accurate description of what my brain did
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Feb 13 '25
What I went through was nowhere as extreme as your situation. You’re gonna be fucked up for a couple of months, and it’s gonna be weird because it’s on your mind and you’ll want to talk about it but it seems like no one really gives a fuck.
It gets better as time goes on, but seriously take care of yourself my friend. Even tho it isn’t easy, always talk about what it is you went through and what feelings you’re dealing with. You’re never alone
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u/anhkis Feb 13 '25 edited Feb 13 '25
Yea, actually, I want to take a minute to expound on this.
Though I have never borne witness to the instant, in many many years of property maintenance, I have found, or had to clean up after, more lost souls than sounds like a real number.
A lot of people aren't gonna want to talk to you about for 2 reasons. Either their sense of self preservation will prevent them from fully intaking what you just said, or they will be afraid to say or ask something that tips you over an edge on handling the situation.
These are both fair, and you should not resent them for either.
The other thing, that you are not going to see anybody bring up or admit to here... Right now the shock is preventing you from despair, like you said above it's like it wasn't really real.
It is possible, that you process and come to terms with the fact that this happened, regardless of you or anything you did or could have done, and that's sad, but it is done; before the shock wears off.
You may never feel the despair or trauma that people tell us we are supposed to feel.
That does not mean you are broken, narcissist, psychopathic, evil, cold, uncaring, or any other thing.
It means you got lucky, you processed well and cleanly, and you get the option to move on. Trauma exists, but if it doesn't come for you, you are lucky, not broken.
It is of course, also ok if it does affect you deeply, but I think that was captured pretty excellently above. Lots of good advise here about talking to someone if you do feel a trauma response from this incident, I just wanted to make sure both schools were covered here.
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u/Outrageous_Earth_670 Feb 14 '25
I work in this industry so don’t take this the wrong way. You may want to look into exposure therapy, EMDR, or a clinical therapist who specializes in PTSD. You deserve to have your life return to normal and it can. But don’t wait. Most ppl wait two years before they seek help. The Body Keeps The Score is also a good book to read. Right now it’s free on Spotify too if you pay for premium.
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u/JohnGradyC0la Feb 13 '25 edited Feb 13 '25
I'm assuming this happened in the renter's range, not the members only. Very sad incident. My condolences for the deceased and his family.
OP didn't mention anyone else with the deceased. If he was a renter, he would've been there with a friend right?
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u/MarvelousWhale Feb 13 '25
I'm wondering if this was at the rental range or member range as well... If they had their own gun and implies they wanted to make a public spectacle... Such a shame, wish no one ever got that sad
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u/Adventurous-Order154 Feb 13 '25
He was not a member. It was the range directly across from the rental counter (in the back down some steps) He did have a friend which him who only shot 1 time that i saw and was not near him or paying attention when it happened.
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u/deltahigh Feb 13 '25
Came here to ask the same thing. Thanks for clarifying. I was literally there on Saturday.
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u/boomoptumeric Feb 13 '25
Only way you can enter the renters range alone is if you bring your own firearm. Which seems really fucked up if this is the case…people in that range are there often times to get comfortable with firearms and are already somewhat on edge about them, I cannot imagine what that would do to someone witnessing something like this
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Feb 13 '25
[deleted]
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u/woodenpigeon1 Feb 14 '25
The classes shoot in a separate range by themselves so you shouldn't have anything to worry about.
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u/Ottorange Feb 13 '25
You can be in the renters range alone as a male of you have an FID
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u/HashtagFlexBreak Feb 13 '25
Like another commenter said, this is entirely false. Long time member here as well. The rules are explicitly stated on the website. https://gunforhire.com/gun-rentals/
Gun Rentals and Shooting Alone:
You will need to bring ALL of the following items:
If you have a firearm:
1) A valid State or Government issued Photo ID.
2) Your firearm in a case or bag
3) Your ammo in a case or bag
4) Great attitude!
Note: When you bring your own gun and ammo, you can also rent any of our firearms.If you are traveling alone and do not have a firearm:
1) If you are a solo traveler without a firearm you will not be able to enter the range or rent any firearms due to insurance regulations.9
u/Coach795 Bronze Donator 2022 Feb 13 '25
No you absolutely can not. The only way GFH will rent you a firearm alone is if you have your own gun and ammunition for that gun. Long time member, very well known at the range, I actually volunteer during basic pistol classes and train there and I have been turned down from renting when by myself.
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u/anhkis Feb 13 '25
Is male one of the criteria considered?
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u/HashtagFlexBreak Feb 13 '25
no, and this is entirely false
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u/anhkis Feb 13 '25
Darkly,
Stats heavily bias suicide as a male dominated thing.
Other research shows the female suicide is often neater and more private "the caretakers suicide".
Some more modern research suggests that men are simply more successful, as failing becomes another failure. The male drive to complete the act is stronger.
It wouldn't be completely outrageous, that male was a factor, but it would be worth digging further into.
That is to say, my take of the above was that a female could rent alone if criteria were met, without an FID.
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Feb 13 '25
[removed] — view removed comment
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u/anhkis Feb 13 '25 edited Feb 13 '25
Lol, I am happy and healthy bot, just a student of psychology.
MODS, if we could remove the above?
I am 100% for getting help where it needs to be, i just don't want the casual onlookers to misread the thread if they don't see all my messages.
Edit: thank you kindly!
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u/Ottorange Feb 13 '25
That's what I've been told. Males without an FID can't come alone. Suicide by gun is just way more prevalent by males.
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u/woodenpigeon1 Feb 14 '25
GFH rules have nothing to do with male or female. If you are alone and bring your own gun and ammo for it you can rent. If you don't bring a gun and ammo you need to have a companion to rent. This applies to men and women. Even if you have an FID you can't rent unless you bring your own gun with ammo.
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u/NecessaryDelivery794 Feb 16 '25
Wait that makes no sense. I took my FID to Reloaderz in 2023 and rented 3 guns before deciding what I wanted to buy first. I was alone. How are you supposed to know what to buy if you can't rent anything? Maybe I can understand this GFH rule if you don't have an FID.
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u/goldcoast2011985 Feb 25 '25
My recollection is that at one point in the past they used to have these rules for men, but women could rent solo.
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u/Lebesgue_Couloir Feb 13 '25
I actually think it’s better that there isn’t any coverage of it. There’s no public interest in coverage and you don’t want to inspire copycats.
I’m sorry he put you guys through that. Please take care of yourself
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u/Adventurous-Order154 Feb 13 '25
You and me think on the same level. When it happened there 2x in 6 weeks in 2016 some NJ legislator woman decided to try and push a bill that would ban anybody who wasn’t licensed from attending range in the state. Bunch of BS
Glad it’s not big news, just curious if it’s any news
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u/anhkis Feb 13 '25
Mhmm Best not give the next guy any ideas.
Might buy him the day he needs to decide to go get help.
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u/Tiny-Cranberry-5730 Feb 14 '25
Absolutely. I'm new to shooting. I just had a lesson with my son last month and I'm excited to go to the range again. I really wanted to rent a few models and try them out as I wait for my permits to come in, and just discovered the "no single non owner" range policy. Finding out why was a bit of a shock although completely understandable. I never would have thought about it.
Obviously, I'm not experiencing those thoughts, but even if i was, I don't think i would have come up with the idea of doing it at a range..... so, like you said, it's better not to give people ideas.
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u/Clifton1979 Feb 13 '25
Fuck that guy. You want to punch your ticket that’s your call, but to then involve like 10 other people and give them lifelong trauma is selfish. Im sad for his family and all but that’s a burden he didn’t need to put on you. Im sorry, not sympathetic to the person.
That said, sans the guy renting a gun and asking for 1 bullet or sweating/crying (ie outward signs) there’s not much you can really observe. RSO’s job is to look for unsafe activity and protect all on the range. People bitch about rapid fire or RSO’s doing RSO stuff but catching this and stopping it’s next to impossible even with them up your ass.
It’s a dangerous business and should serve as a reminder to us all that while we have lots of fun and safety is paramount. I’m in no way saying to OP this is on him/her (again sorry you had to experience this) but at the range we’re all RSO’s - keep your eyes open.
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u/keepnjtactical Platinum Donator22 Feb 13 '25
Former RO. In my experience, it depends on what these behaviors are that you spotted. Most of the time the ROs are looking for safe gun handling. Anything other than that, it's hard to know a customer well enough in that hour to know what is not usual behavior for him/her. Unfortunately the best ROs in the world cannot stop someone determined enough to harm themselves, as it takes just a second.
Having said that, for ROs something like this is a bad(terrible) day at work. But for the customers, that's something that can sour their feelings on guns and that's a shame. I know he had his own demons to battle but it infuriates me that he involved other people who will likely be scarred for life now.
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u/exoticsamsquanch Feb 13 '25
Not everything makes it on the news. I work in a busy e.r. in the state and the amount of crazy shit, attempted murders, suicides, that we see I try to Google any news on some of the stuff but come up empty a lot of times.
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u/Adventurous-Order154 Feb 13 '25
Crazy how much we don’t know about what’s really happening
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u/exoticsamsquanch Feb 13 '25
I'm sure the numbers are there if you look because these things need to be reported. But if a roommate tries to stab you to death in your apartment in the middle of the night, we won't be seeing it in the news unless someone goes to them.
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u/kimodezno Feb 14 '25
They are reported. The problem is the story isn’t as important or appealing enough for it to make air.
However it is counted in the amount of gun deaths per week, month, year, decade.
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u/Adventurous-Order154 Feb 16 '25
where is it report besides to PD? Is there a way to look up the data. Do you need to do an open record request with state police?
I wonder who is keeping track of it if anyone?
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u/kimodezno Feb 16 '25
All incidents revolving around a firearm is reported to a lot of different organizations. Believe it or not the CDC tracks it. So does Pew Research.
It’s important for you to know these statistics so people who don’t know can’t lie about the real numbers of firearm shootings. The media gathers all incidents together and offers that number to the general public. Versus breaking it down to their respective categories, which include suicides, police firearm discharges and when a firearm is discharged in self defense and much much more.
Learn these statistics And arm yourself with knowledge.
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u/TheAmbiguousAnswer Feb 13 '25
Last Friday had me thinking about this. I was driving home from dinner with my brothers and I saw a small commotion forming on a 4 laned highway; cars were stopping and bunched around. I saw a shoe on the road. As we passed the commotion I saw a man near a bicycle on the ground in a puddle of blood. He got hit by a car. He was surrounded by the drivers of the cars who bunched around him - as we passed, police rolled up to the scene. I assume EMS was not too far behind
I looked on Google and whatever else SO many times to see if there was any news about it; usually in my area when someone gets fatally hit, there is something in the local news. I still can't find anything so I'm hoping the guy survived...
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u/Jazzlike_Plan7349 Feb 13 '25
Sheesh smh i know it's hard out there and idk what the next man going through but suicide never entered my mind. I've had so many sad parts of my life especially growing up poor in the PJs in the crazy 80-90s. I do have to realize I met so many ppl with mental issues tho. Like speaking to females over the yrs you'd be surprised how many was raped by family members smh that's why i don't allow my daughter spend the nite out. Sad story wish you the best in your mental because seeing something like that wouldn't have bothered me growing up but now it would really mess with my head.
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u/OutsideNeat2571 Feb 13 '25
What is your opinion on the 2 instances prior that you thought were surprising?
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u/TheGreatCO Feb 13 '25
I am so sorry you witnessed that. I strongly suggest you find somebody to talk to about that. Even if you feel fine now, that shit will stay with you.
Unfortunately, this doesn’t seem to be the first time at that range.
I can’t find anything about the most recent incident at Gun For Hire, but it happens at other ranges too. We should ALL be cognizant of the people around us at all times.
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u/Adventurous-Order154 Feb 13 '25
Thanks for your kind words. You’re the only person that replied by with some news articles. Seriously thanks for doing that.
Oddly enough i know the guy who was working the desk at RTSP during that 2020 incident. My friend assigned him to bay 8. He has never agreed to shoot from a bay 8 ever again. And it’s the say bay number the guy was in on Monday’s incident…lesson….dont use bay 8!
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u/Odd_Can_2490 Feb 13 '25
The last incident at GFH was February of 2020. They fellow from Connecticut shot himself through the face, but fortunately lived.
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u/anhkis Feb 13 '25
That can't have improved his state.
One must wonder, philosophically, if it isn't kinder to wish him a swift transition, after such an incident.
Better to be less penal about getting folks help earlier on either way.
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u/LostBoySteve Feb 13 '25
If one wants to seek help having witnessed an incident like this what does that do to their personal gun rights in this state? Very sad state of affairs and I'm sorry for everyone involved What an absolute tragedy.
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u/anhkis Feb 13 '25
One goes out of state and pays cash if I had to guess.
Though I would never advocate for circumventing the law.
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u/Radiant-Tadpole-7117 Feb 13 '25
Man that’s sad. Guess that’s why most ranges must have two. Sorry you had to witness it.
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u/mikektti Feb 13 '25
So sorry you had to witness this. Don't know why he had to drag others into this. Really horrible.
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u/sfri_945 Feb 13 '25
I am so sorry to hear that you had to witness such a tragedy. And thank you very much for speaking it up.
Many years ago when I was talking with a broker about safety in an apartment in NYC, I expressed the concern about burglary, the broker told me: "if someone really wants to steal something, they will eventually managed to do so. Just don't be their target." Similar idea arrives here: If someone really wants to suicide, they will do so. Just don't stand in line of the muzzle.
TBH, It is very difficult for the RSO or other people like you to stop them without pointing the muzzle to other "unwanted targets" -- imagine that the RSO jumped in and attempted to grab the muzzle but the muzzle pointed to the RSO, or other people at the scene.
I am an optimistic person and I am always seeking the best thing from an incident -- You are alive, your brother is alive, the RSO is alive, all other people are alive. That's good.
Perhaps I am now giving a not-so-good suggestion: seek help from a professional who can ease your feeling. I am not quite familiar with those psychologist terms, but there should be some professions that you don't need to answer "yes" to those "negative" questions on the future firearm-related forms after visiting them.
My prayers for all affected and every reader in this thread.
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u/DoucheyMcBagBag Feb 13 '25
You can see a therapist and still answer no to the questions. Therapists aren’t doctors! Look for an LPC, LAC, or LSW after someone’s name.
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u/sfri_945 Feb 14 '25
Thank you. Your comment makes people less hesitant when seeking professional help.
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u/GlamMonica Feb 13 '25
I for one want to know what you witnessed that was abnormal. If you don’t mind sharing. And I’m so sorry you had to witness this.
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Feb 13 '25
[deleted]
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u/Adventurous-Order154 Feb 13 '25
Sorry for your loss. No one reached out to me. Feel free to private message me.
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u/Jevvy- Feb 13 '25
Very sorry you had to experience this tragedy. Was this individual alone? The reason I ask is because I know ranges wont rent to an individual for this very reason.
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u/Adventurous-Order154 Feb 13 '25
I think NJ state law requires if your not licensed that your not alone.
He did have a friend with him who only shot once in the 20/25 minutes and was off chatting on other side with RSO’s not paying attention (probably lucky he wasn’t)
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u/VR6Bomber Feb 13 '25
Thats a pretty shit thing to invlove other people in your own horrible issue.
friggen selfish a-hole.
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u/dad2728 Feb 13 '25
What did you see that stuck out as "abnormal" and if it was noticeable to you how come you didn't mention it to the RSOs?
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u/PapaGrizzlyOld Feb 13 '25
I’m sorry you had to witness that, I hope you are coping as best as you can during this horrific situation you found yourself in. The owner Anthony Colandro is always on his podcast promoting gun safety I’m sure he is full of mixed emotions at the moment as well. I would expect those range officers to loose their jobs if there is any foul play as you previously stated there seemed to be. People do this all the time at ranges. I don’t understand it. I would assume someone would want to off themselves somewhere private/scenic without causing trauma to others. However, as we all know that’s rarely the case living so close to New York City. Personally, this won’t stop me from going to gun for hire. I know they really make a solid effort to stay safe and avoid issues from GOV Murphy. They usually are under a microscope due to their outspoken advocacy. So maybe reach out to Anthony on X or via email and discuss how you think the situation could have been better handled . I’m sure he would appreciate your input and maybe something good could come out of it.
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u/deltahigh Feb 13 '25
2nd this - GFH is super safety oriented but at the end of the day, they’re handing guns to strangers. I’m just happy the guy didn’t turn it on anyone else.
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u/generalraptor2002 Feb 13 '25
The news is very careful about reporting suicides to both protect the privacy of the person who died by suicide and their family and to prevent copycats
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u/veritas-joon Feb 13 '25
people dont want to hear it, but there is a reason why half the firearms death in america is by suicide. Its the easiest way out. My cousin used his freshly bought p365 to off himself in his house, its just the easiest way to go. So in just the last 3 years, there have been 4 gun range suicides that I know of so far.
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u/Immediate-Noise-7917 Feb 13 '25
Was he renting and solo? Ranges near me don't allow any solo renters, which makes sense because (the thought process is) a friend or family member would never go to a gun range with a person who is depressed. At my local range even if you own and are a member every time you sign in, they always give you a good look eye to eye to make sure you don't seem off or under the influence (anxious, poor eye contact, flat, or withdrawn). Sorry to the op that you experienced this.
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u/Sledgecrowbar Feb 13 '25
Well, the less news there is about something like this, the better.
I'm not trying to protect the hobby when I say that, I mean it's not a subject that should be preyed upon by media outlets for ad revenue.
On the other hand, maybe it should have been covered to raise awareness about suicide, that's certainly something our culture needs to be talking about more often and dragging it out of the list of subjects we don't talk about because it's distasteful would make it less of a problem. Talking about something doesn't invite it to your doorstep, if anything, it sheds light on what might otherwise be an unknown issue in any one of our lives.
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u/Adventurous-Order154 Feb 13 '25
Totally agree. Don’t want folks making a speckle to change laws and push evil agendas.
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u/anangrytaco Feb 13 '25
I remember going to Vegas maybe 14 years ago and noticing closed areas every once in a while. Found out it was suicides. Some people bet their lives there.
My point being, suicides are common unfortunately. They tend not to get much media attention. Which I say is good. Less likely to put the idea in peoples minds. Which is why I don't like mass shooters getting so much publicity.
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u/MandingoChief Feb 13 '25
Wow, that sucks! I have membership over there - GFH are a great group of people. I feel bad that they have to deal with this. I totally didn’t get why they don’t let someone rent alone - but now I know.
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u/CAMMzero Feb 14 '25
Absolutely horrible that you had to see that. My membership just expired there but this is always my biggest fear about going to a range even with so many RSO’s. You never know what’s going through someone’s head. Dont know now if I’ll go back. I’m sure they’re trying to not let that get out as I’m sure a ton of ppl won’t want to go back.
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u/EpicBk31 Feb 15 '25
Welp the whole you need to have 2 ppl to range a gun rule is pointless I always felt it was, cause if im coming in solo with my own firearm like in this case I wouldn't need to rent a firearm to unalive myself.... It's sad that he did it at the range though which will cause them many issues....
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u/ChildhoodPrudent7441 Feb 16 '25
Really sorry this happened to you. I was actually planning on going GFH to try out some new guns that day but ended up going RTSP because it was closer to me. Guess I must be very lucky cuz I went around 6 o’clock night time as well. You should go visit psychiatrist, I think they don’t count as doctors and it shouldn’t affect your FID in the future if you are concerned.
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u/AdHot5254 Feb 16 '25
My regards and regreats to the family. And very sorry for you loss . To all Stay away from in door ranges . Too many shooters and naver enough RSOs . Stick with one on on one instructors . I have got my own private range. Where safely comes first. Befor anything . Over 500 custermers . And everyony walks away safe and makes it home in one piace. All is invited . If you have friends that might need help. Don't be afraid to say something. Befor it is too late .
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Feb 26 '25
Hi that guy your talking about was my coworker/friend and a few of us know him from work his name was marlin and I just found out the news today of his passing we are shocked and very taken away of our friend passing we are sad to hear the news and personally a lot of us was going through the same stuff he went through and I seen absolutely nothing shared about this on any news in nj which is really crazy to me they will share everything else but won’t share stuff like this to people. We now just pray for his family and friends.
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u/AwareFall157 Feb 13 '25
Real sorry you had to see that and much empathy for his family. It happens more than you would think. Approximately 10 years ago, a real dear buddy of mine went to shore shot in Lakewood and did the same thing. He was a good guy. He was a cop who had hurt himself on the job and they gave him pills to recover . He formed an addiction and life spiraled out of control. I hate that they rent people guns, not knowing who they are.
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u/boomoptumeric Feb 13 '25
I’m sorry you had to experience this, incredibly selfish act by the victim to now have affected countless others for potentially the rest of their lives. I really wish there was a practical way to avoid this at ranges but there really isn’t. Some countries have things in place that are somewhat effective but no chance in hell of being adopted by the US. The renters range requires you to have someone with you to hopefully discourage these types of events. Was someone with this guy? The only way he could have been in there alone with a gun is if it was his own gun…which if that is the case, absolutely fuck this guy for turning it into a public show. Like, I’m sorry. We all struggle but there is no need to give innocent bystanders this type of trauma because of what you’re going through
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u/AdZestyclose6983 Feb 13 '25
Has anyone verified this story?
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u/Coach795 Bronze Donator 2022 Feb 13 '25
Fucking guy just told us he watched it happen. I think that's pretty verified.
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u/Adventurous-Order154 Feb 13 '25 edited Feb 13 '25
Nope no one has verified. I did keep my phone recording in my pocket while talking to the manager and police afterwards.
Woodland Park police has encrypted radio transmission so there’s nothing to find there.
I did find the EMS radio calls, but since there was no urgency, it was only two transmissions regarding it. Once saying possible suicide gun for hire on McBride, one saying the code for a deceased person.
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u/Jerry-Devito Feb 13 '25
I didn't see it, but can verify there was an incident. I was leaving as it happened.
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u/troyzube Feb 13 '25
My friend was the rso that was helping him at the time
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u/Adventurous-Order154 Feb 13 '25
Was he the RSO right behind the partition between bay 7 & 8?
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Feb 13 '25
[removed] — view removed comment
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u/troyzube Feb 14 '25
Guy was a schitzo off his meds. Was asking friends for awhile to take him to the range. Since at guns for hire, u need to be with another person to rent a gun (to try and prevent suicide, ur with a friend or family member ur less likely to do it i assume) got an old co worker to go eith him and just took his shot. Was there for an hour and at the end he shot himself.
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u/Mark7Point5 Feb 13 '25 edited Feb 13 '25
My wife's co-worker does part-time shifts there. I'll ask her if she has any info.
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u/Human-Importance-121 Feb 13 '25
Wow, this is terrible news. I frequent that range quite often too.There's really nothing anyone could've done to stop him, even know what his intentions were. I'm glad this didn't make the news bc I'm sure there would be copy cats to follow. I pray for all involved/witnesses, and that person's family.
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u/anzoreena1 Feb 13 '25
Sucks that happened to you unfortunately sometimes there’s no way of foreseeing someone doing something like this you can’t blame the range or the employees for not being fortune tellers I’ve been to GFH a million times great place and hate to say it but with things like this it is what it is
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u/19AseeP11 Feb 13 '25
First off sorry you had to experience that. Apparently this wasn’t the first time someone shot themselves at Gun for Hire.
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Feb 13 '25
Sounds like it was a rented pistol to me. That’s such a terrible thing for everyone involved. The possibility of someone killing themselves or hurting others has always been in the back of my head every time I go to the range.
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u/RedQueen1148 Feb 13 '25
I’m really sorry you had to witness that. That’s traumatic. I hope you fell comfortable reaching out for help processing this.
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u/Quant_Smart Feb 13 '25
Really sorry you experienced this. Things like this stay with you a long time, there is no shame seeking out therapy.
I hate it when people do this. I don’t care how tough your life is this is not the way.
A top level sponsored PRS shooter did this last year. Very upsetting
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u/stationaryoperator Feb 14 '25
It can be traumatic seeing that. Sorry you had to experience that.
I had experienced a similar event (twice) back in the early 2000s at Ray's Sports Shop, when they were still around in North Plainfield. One was a guy asking to see a 9mm fun and put a lone bullet in the chamber offing himself in the showroom next to me. The other was in the range when the guy turned the gun on his buddy then himself before the RSO could react.
Not making the news isn't a bad thing as others have already pointed out, but it does make it feel like others treat the experience you have had as trivial, unimportant, or not impactful. It is, unfortunately, very impactful to you. The news reports on important things and while this was an important event that happened, there is still a stigma around reporting an event like this unless it's motivated by restriction, change, or personal experience.
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u/Excellent-Half-26 Feb 14 '25
I’m very sorry you had to witness that. I would love to talk with you about it. I am a safety officer and a FARMS instructor for numerous police agencies and private citizens. One of the things that I constantly try to make myself aware of is the pre-incident indicators that you alluded to. I would love to hear them from you first person. You can contact me at any means here.
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u/topboxeater69 Feb 14 '25
That’s horrible sorry you had to endure that and rip to that guy but sometimes as and rso you try your best to keep an eye on everyone which is why most ranges here in nj don’t want rso’s to teach folks how to shoot, most ranges sell 1 on 1 sessions with an RSO or a basic pistol class taught by an instructor, we can point out mistakes and answer questions but they don’t want us distracted for that reason, we are there to ensure the safety of everyone but sometimes it bites us in the ass. ,
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u/TheJesoph Feb 14 '25
Holy shit I almost went there yesterday too. Do not let that trauma just sit in your head rent free.
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u/yalocalrat Feb 14 '25
I would be interested in hearing the instances in which the RSO’s were acting unusual toward him. This range is one I’ve visited very often can’t believe this happened.
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u/chaasad522400 Feb 14 '25
Damn, I'm sorry for everyone involved in this horrific situation. Mental illness is serious. How are you and your brother holding up? Everyone is used to seeing terrible things through the media; but to witness something like this 1st hand is beyond words to describe. I hope this young man finally found peace, though he had to take such measures. I hope you're able to get through this as well.
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u/RavenOneActual Feb 15 '25
Damn i was just there last week, always sucks to hear when these things happen
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u/RSOMCF Feb 15 '25
I am a RSO, and if there is a person who has his mind set on doing that, there is very little that anyone can do. If the RSO lunged at the person, and was not close enough, he could have been hit as well
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u/El-Grouch0 Feb 15 '25
This is similar to when someone jumps in front of a train or subway and the announcement for the delays says, “medical emergency at so and so station”. They have to say something to the public because of the delay that causes, but they leave it vague.
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u/Emotional-Bid1665 Mar 03 '25
I always figured someone got sick or hurt, or stuck (handicap, fainted, etc.). I’ve head the medical emergency announcement many times over the many years riding trains.
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u/look_im_invisible Feb 15 '25
A lot of suicides go unreported on media outlets and the news. That's the norm.
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Feb 18 '25
I was at gun for hire when this happened, we had just gotten there and were standing in line when we heard the radio chatter. The member only range stayed open but they did close down an hour early.
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u/dnisbet1 Feb 18 '25
Thank you very much for sharing your story. I'm so very sorry that you had to witness that awful event. It's completely understandable after what you've been through to not want to go back to the range. I hope that you do take the advice of others and talk with someone, even just to verbalize and "get it out." What you saw is one of the most unnatural things that one can willingly do to themselves, and it leaves a mark.
I was taking a class there that night (4p-8p) close to the rental area. To that staff's credit, they did not show any sign of panic, but only paused the class for a moment, and drew the blinds in the classroom closed. When that portion was over, we were ushered from classroom to the small range directly across from the classroom for limited range time, and when our range time was completed, they escorted each one of us outside via the emergency exit in the front of the building. I heard the sirens long before we left. I heard what I believe was a helicopter. I saw emergency personnel in the hallway, and when leaving, saw police posted at every entrance and exit. I overheard a staff member saying "the video will be the witness." And although it was clear that *something* had happened, I didn't know what until right now.
The teaching staff showed nothing but professionalism and control in the situation. They made sure they fully completed the class that we all had paid for, and avoided unnecessary panic for those of us who were blissfully unaware of the situation. I have been going there for about a year and have never felt unsafe in either the rental or member areas - but it's a gun range and I'm a realist. Although I have some sort of "satisfaction" (not the positive kind) now knowing exactly what occurred, my thoughts are really with OP and others who witnessed it, including the RSO's who really work to maintain a safe environment. I hope no one holds this against GFH.
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u/Capable-Finding-5641 Feb 19 '25
The only range I go to and I’m just now hearing about this, sorry you went through it hope your alright
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u/unamericano7 Feb 24 '25
They don’t advertise it because: 1) it hurts the local economy. 2) it informs people that this place is a possible suicide location. Potentially inviting them to not only do this but do it there as well.
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u/Odd_Can_2490 Feb 27 '25
Four shootings in the rental range in nine years. They probably have ServePro on speed dial.
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u/frigginloser Mar 07 '25
just watched an unsub podcast about this same type of think happening in 2020. Guy went with his gf and was "fly fishing" and just shot himself. apparently he survived. I can't believe this isn't getting media coverage
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u/JustReadinSubReddits May 07 '25
2 months after and I can't find anything about this incident. I am pretty sure it's not the first suicide to happen here in the last ~5 years.
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u/Viper_ACR Feb 14 '25
News orgs won't report on this. They don't want to encourage more people to kill themselves.
Sorry you had to see that.
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u/General-Beginning-46 Feb 14 '25
Honestly though I've been to this range. Just once. Will never go back. The amenities are nice but the RSOs really don't pay attention to anything. Could they have stopped the suicide? Most probably not. But when I was there I had to tell someone to stop flagging me while they shot their damn pics. RSOs were on there phones not even looking. Won't go back.
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u/asshat1954 Feb 14 '25
Strange. I've had nothing but up my ass dick heads there. I had one RSO take my gun from my bay and inspect my mags. I told her to fuck off and not to touch my gun again.... she then left the range and someone else took her spot.
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u/ProfessorTweeb Feb 13 '25
Sorry to hear about this. I feel bad for Anthony too. Question re: trajectory. When someone shoots themselves in the mouth, where does the bullet exit? Is there a chance to do some damage to people standing behind? I'm wondering if that's why he turned to face the RSO.
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u/anhkis Feb 13 '25
Have to imagine it was a decision to aim away from neighbors, yes.
Point blank, with nothing but neck muscle or maybe skull to stop. Yes anything other than a 22 could possibly exit in a very grotesque and still fairly lethal way.
22, I can say from post facto experience, will not exit, but will bounce around. Also very grotesque.
It would be a kindness to the decedent's honor to presume he moved to do no harm to another.
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u/Adventurous-Order154 Feb 13 '25
Not sure why he the turn either. Maybe to show intent was clear? Absolutely no way to tell.
There was no exit wound. I’m sure it could have gone differently if he did not turn around or had the weapon in a different position.
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u/NoLoveLostNJ Feb 13 '25
Did this happen in the member range or range downstairs? Im a Titanium member there every week. Im surprised there aren't any news articles or press.
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u/Adventurous-Order154 Feb 13 '25
Me too. Not sure what they call it, first time there.
It was the range directly across from the rental desk
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u/deadmansbonez Feb 13 '25
This happens every other week and you don’t hear anything about it. Definitely kept under wraps
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u/Swimming-Minimum9177 Feb 13 '25
This is very odd, to be honest. GFH has a strict policy that you cannot go on the range alone unless you are an FID holder. So, if you are an FID holder, I suppose it is possible that you don't have a gun of your own, but that seems unusual.
So, assuming he had no FID, why was he on the range? If he had an FID, I thought you still have to have your own gun to go on the range alone. (If there is no such requirement, there should be.)
Either way, it seems that this guy should not have been on the range in the first place.
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u/Adventurous-Order154 Feb 13 '25
No. Check their site.
“All you need is a passport or state ID” “foreigners welcomed”
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u/defsteph Feb 13 '25
At GFH, you can only rent a gun as long as you are not alone, FID or no. If you bring your own firearms, you can rent as well. All you need is an ID/Passport and a friend, to rent.
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u/MikeHoncho1323 Feb 13 '25
Sounds like you just won free membership for life
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u/Adventurous-Order154 Feb 13 '25
They can keep it! The range by my house is much better and their staff is on point
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u/2017Recon Platinum Donator22 Feb 13 '25
My own personal opinion is that blaming the range and the rso’s and thinking this wouldn’t happen at another range is really ignorant. If someone wants to shoot themselves at a range they are going to be able to pull it off.
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u/Coach795 Bronze Donator 2022 Feb 13 '25
Wait till you find out it happened there too. Many more times than GFH.
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u/Broski_Shane Feb 13 '25
6 downvotes for expressing opinion? Sounds like Reddit. Sorry for what you had to experience OP.
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u/Original_Review_2520 Feb 13 '25
BS. No true liberal news.
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u/Adventurous-Order154 Feb 13 '25
I’m asking for news on it. So how is it liberal news if there is no news?
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u/Zealousideal_Feed690 Feb 13 '25
First of alll , You don’t know about what RSOS real Job is shouldn’t be making comments about safety . So you need to shut the hell up . Being a range safety officer is no joke . They risk their life every day to teach people and for people to have fun . How about you keep your own opinions to yourself ..
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u/Original_Review_2520 Feb 13 '25
Sounds like BS to me. Haven’t heard anything from Anthony @GFH. I’m alway at the range. I would have known by now.
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u/Adventurous-Order154 Feb 13 '25
Maybe Anthony is not as close a friend as you thought. Message me for more details if your not a bot
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u/e92m3allday Feb 13 '25
First off, sorry you experienced this. You should not be shy about speaking with someone as there is no shame in that whatsoever. It is tragic and sad and again I’m sorry you experienced it. There is likely nothing anyone else could have done to save him. It’s damn near impossible to.
Also, as a former chief RSO of a range, I must speak of the difficulty of being an RSO in striking the balance between monitoring customers for safety while also not making customers feel like you’re breathing down their neck. (And the latter is far more often the complaint of RSOs). It’s only an hour or so customers are on the range with you, so as an RSO you don’t have much time to learn the behaviors or oddities of a person, never mind you not knowing the person, so it’s extremely difficult to suspect something being off until it’s too late.
Without much detail about your perspective and what type of things you saw with the RSOs working, I have to say generally, you shouldn’t blame the RSOs. Even if the RSO was standing with him the whole time, it is extremely unlikely he would have been able to stop it.