"Heroes Live Forever" - the story of Prince William County (VA) Officer Ashley Guindon

McLean, VA (October 21, 2025) - Ashley Guindon once wrote in her high school yearbook, “Live for something rather than die for nothing.” It summed up the way she chose to live her life—why she became a Marine Corps Reservist and a Prince William County (VA) police officer. Her decision to become a police officer was, in part, a tribute to her father. He had once dreamed of joining the force himself. But he was injured in an accident and couldn’t pursue the career of his dreams. Ashley fulfilled that dream for him. Ashley was 28 when she was sworn in as a police officer. The very next day, February 27, 2016—her first shift on patrol—she responded to a domestic disturbance call in Lake Ridge, Virginia. Before officers arrived, a 32-year-old active-duty soldier fatally shot his wife. When Ashley and two fellow officers responded to the call, the man opened fire with a rifle. Ashley was killed and the other two officers were seriously wounded but survived. The murderer was arrested on the scene and is serving seven consecutive life terms in prison. Ashley’s tour of duty had lasted just one day. But her death did not end her story. At her funeral, her police chief, Steve Hudson, said, “Ashley will never leave you. Her strength will inspire you. Her passion and drive will keep you moving day in and day out.” Listen to the podcast to learn more.Citizens Behind the Badge communicates through Substack! Please share this post and encourage others to subscribe for free and hear about other law enforcement heroes. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit behindbadge.substack.com