A Nevada judge on Wednesday set bail at $500,000 for Allison Howlett, a Henderson resident facing serious criminal allegations after authorities say an armed standoff prevented what investigators feared could have become a mass-casualty event.
According to KSNV, Howlett, who is transitioning from male to female, is married to Julie Howlett. Police said both Allison and Julie are transitioning and are taking estrogen and progesterone.
The case began Saturday when officers responded to the Sunset Station parking garage after reports of an armed individual refusing to exit a vehicle. According to 8 News Now, Howlett remained inside the car while allegedly armed with multiple firearms before being taken into custody.
Court records and law enforcement statements indicate investigators are treating the incident with the utmost seriousness because of statements reportedly made before the arrest.
Police said Julie Howlett contacted authorities after claiming Allison had made disturbing threats, including references to "suicide by cop," and reported that Allison had taken her vehicle without permission.
According to police, Julie also told investigators that Allison would frequently put on body armor, grab a rifle, and ask to be driven to a homeless shelter while allegedly suggesting an intent to shoot homeless people. Those statements form part of the investigation and have not been proven in court.
The charges against Howlett remain allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty. Prosecutors are expected to present additional evidence as the case moves through the legal process.
The incident serves as another reminder that credible threats involving firearms demand immediate law enforcement intervention. In this case, authorities acted before any reported mass shooting occurred, an outcome that underscores the importance of responding quickly to warning signs while ensuring the judicial process determines the facts in court.