Instructor: Michael Howell

Michael Howell
Biography: Meet Michael Howell, a retired law enforcement professional with a remarkable 25-year career in the Kansas police force. Decorated with multiple gold Valor awards for Bravery, Michael's journey is marked by courage and a relentless commitment to the safety of his community. His story took an unexpected turn when, in 2017,off-duty and inside a Lenexa, Kansas, big-box store, he faced an active killer. 

In a moment that defined the ongoing threat of active killers across the globe, Michael effectively neutralized the armed attacker, saving numerous innocent lives within the store. This pivotal event became a testament to his unwavering dedication to protecting others. His illustrious career extended beyond law enforcement, as he retired as a Major in the US Army Reserve after 28 years of commissioned service, including multiple deployments from 2001 through 2009.

Michael's professional trajectory includes roles in patrol, DUI investigations, and fatality accident investigations, culminating in his promotion to Captain before his retirement in 2019. Armed with a wealth of knowledge and experience, Michael earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Park University, a Master of Arts in Business and Organizational Security Operations from Webster University, and a Master of Arts in Management from Baker University. Currently pursuing his Ph.D. in Criminal Justice in Leadership from Liberty University, Michael is also a proud graduate of the U.S. Army Command & General Staff College.

Named the 2018 Kansas City Metro Chiefs and Sheriff Association Officer of the Year, Michael Howell has embarked on a new mission. Traveling across the country, he conducts seminars on Active Killersurvival, sharing the invaluable lessons gleaned from his 2017 engagement. His upcoming book, "Ten Minutes to Contact! Off Duty and Under Fire!" delves into not just his off-duty response but also explores the broader active killer problem facing communities in America today. 

Michael Howell is not just a speaker, he's a living testament to resilience, bravery, and the enduring spirit of the protective Sheepdog!

Classes by this instructor


Surviving an Active Killer Attack
The course provides an in-depth study of the active killer tragedies in society, both past and most recent. Through the course, participants will not only gain a stronger understanding of the threat, but more importantly, how to better understand how an individual can make the ultimate decision to commit such acts of violence. The latter half of the course will provide the participant a first-hand account of the actions of both the active killer, and the responses from Captain Howell and the responding on-duty officers. Video, 911 calls for police, and a discussion of lessons learned close out the seminar.
Friday, October 4, 2024, Hays KLETC Regional Site