Standoff: Race, Policing, and a Deadly Assault That Gripped a Nation

by Jamie Thompson

Standoff is award-winning journalist Jamie Thompson's gripping account of the deadliest attack on law enforcement since 9/11, and the officers behind an audacious plan to stop it.

On the evening of July 7, 2016, protesters gathered in cities across the nation after police shot two black men, Philando Castile and Alton Sterling. As officers patrolled a march in Dallas, a young man stepped out of an SUV wearing a bulletproof vest and carrying a high-powered rifle. He killed five officers and wounded eleven others.

It fell to a small group of cops to corner the shooter inside a community college, where a fierce gun battle was followed by a stalemate. Crisis negotiator Larry Gordon, a 21-year department veteran, spent hours bonding with the gunman—over childhood ghosts and death and racial injustice in America—while his colleagues devised an unprecedented plan to bring the night to its dramatic end.

Thompson’s minute-by-minute account includes intimate portrayals of the negotiator, a surgeon who operated on the fallen officers, a mother of four shot down in the street, and the SWAT officers tasked with stopping the gunman. Their stories go to the heart of the deeply pressing issue of race and policing in our country, and reflect America’s divide over how to view the men and woman assigned to protect us.

Genres: Nonfiction, True Crime, Crime, Adult, American History, Race

336 pages, Hardcover

First published September 22, 2020

Reviews

[Jeff · Rating 4 out of 5]

Solid, Compelling, Yet Blatantly Biased In Favor Of Cops. Four years ago nearly to the day when I read this book on July 11, 2020, Dallas cops used a brick of C4 to murder a suspect in a college building, rather than arresting him and bringing him to trial. This book is a detailed telling of the events of that night, taken from multiple interviews and videos with many of the very people in question. It doesn't really delve into race or policing generally so much as the thoughts and histories of those involved, and not one person involved comes out looking like so much as a good person. Even with the narrative blatantly biased to put them in as favorable a light as possible. A compelling read that very much puts the reader in the night in question and in the heads of the cops in question, and this fact alone is the reason it rates so high. A great primer on exactly what cops think of the rest of us in modern America, and thus very much recommended.

A final note: While I absolutely recommend reading this book, I recommend getting it from a library or waiting until it hits the used market because the cops in question stand to benefit financially from its sale. This is a novel recommendation from me, but warranted in this case as these people should *not* stand to make money from murdering someone.

[vanessa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an engrossing, fast-paced retelling of the ambush against Dallas police officers in July 2016. Thompson's writing is suspenseful; she traces the histories of the people that were on the ground that day while also detailing their decision-making. This is an account more from the perspectives of Dallas police, its chief, the mayor. It makes some points about BLM and about police shootings against Black people. It's clear that these police officers have opinions about bias in policing based on their lived experiences... many opinions I disagree with or don't think are helpful in building community trust. Some comments these officers make are the embodiment of toxic masculinity, it's this idea that using force > anything else. However, I'm not a cop and have not seen the things they've seen. I guess it was just interesting to listen to their honest opinions. The most conflicting and riveting person here is the negotiator, Larry Gordon, who is a black officer in Dallas's SWAT force.

[Victoria · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to Netgalley and Henry Holt for providing this ARC. This is a very good telling of the Dallas police shootings that occurred in 2016. Although I was familiar with the event, this book provided lots of details I did not know. This book is mainly told from the view of the police officers involved and does a good job of explaining their thoughts during the crisis as well as their backgrounds. What I didn’t like about the book was that it left me feeling educated, but dejected about the divide in our country between factions supporting anti racism initiatives and police support initiatives. It didn’t seem like anyone in the book was likely to change their attitudes and I feel like in 2020, that is eden more true given our polarized state. I don’t fault the author for any of this, she is reporting a factual story.

[Austin Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story-telling from beginning to end. I had to put this book down multiple times because my adrenaline was pumping and I could hear my heart beating. Also I appreciate that I didn’t feel like I was trying to be swayed to hold to a certain political belief or to jump on the BLM movement. The journalist truly did a great job presenting multiple perspectives and ideologies in regards to a cultural/societal issue in America throughout our history.

[Anita · Rating 4 out of 5]

Set to publish Sept 8, 2020

A quality piece of reporting. Jamie Thompson (the lady journalist who wrote on this shooting for Dallas papers, not the male military memoirist this name is also attached to on Goodreads) manages to bring a lot of conflict to the table and offer it in an unbiased way. The cops, SWAT, and DART officers all speak for themselves. Even the shooter's voice is in his own words. The story speaks for itself, and Jamie Thompson did an outstanding job of chasing it down.

With an abundant number of firsthand accounts, some short and single-chaptered while others carry throughout the entire event, Thompson manages to frame the social commentary of The Standoff within the backstory of these officers. Their previous experiences in life, in the military, and in the police department have been steeped in racial politics and so the story builds this history upon the officers of the city itself - there's even a little Kennedy discussion in here - up through specific incidents and the Black Lives Matter movement. All leading up to Dallas on July 7, 2016 when Micah Xavier Johnson decided this was where he would start his revolution.

The negotiator, Larry Gordon, is a member of SWAT. He's also toeing the line between black and blue.
At work, he defended black people's gripes with law enforcement, explaining how he even still got pulled over while off duty. To relatives and friends, Gordon was always defending cops, trying to explain the use of force and the dangers of the job. He was too black to be blue, and too blue to be black.

Another great viewpoint comes from the trauma surgeon, Dr. Williams, who spends a lot of time after this shooting to advocate for better relations between police and community. As a black surgeon, he also experiences racial politics in his life and workplace. He has a ritual once he gets in his car to place his badge around his neck - whether he's going to work or not - to clearly identify him as a doctor in case he gets pulled over. He has his veteran's status on his driver's license and his Air Force Academy plates as "talismans" to protect him in case he gets pulled over.
Even he, a surgeon at one of the country's busiest trauma centers, could on any road, outside any home, be reduced to a "black man acting suspiciously." A menace. A threat.

Another standout member of SWAT was Banes. I had a hard time grasping why Banes read like a main character when he was not as enveloped in the narrative as Gordon, but I think it's because he offers a reasonable look at the blue side of the thin blue line. He acknowledges the alpha pack, testosterone fueled, misogynistic necessity of police, military, and especially SWAT.
The cop would watch the SWAT guys roll up in their armored personnel carriers, hanging off the sides with their M4's, muscles flexing beneath their heavy entry vests, hair perfectly fixed as if they'd taken an extra moment with the blow-dryer before heading out to save the world. They'd ride past that cop and silently communicate that they were tougher, quicker, better.
It doesn't prevent him from succumbing to it, but at least he acknowledges it. He yearned for it until he made it. Through him we get to meet many tougher tougher SWAT guys. Burlier, older, more experienced and testosteroney.

I would definitely recommend this to any fans of military or police non-fiction, maybe similar to Black Hawk Down, those interested in the topics of police relations in America, racial policing, SWAT, guns, explosives, with minor social politicking, and hints of a subliminal PTSD study.

Thank you to the publisher, Henry Holt and Co., for providing me with an early e-copy via Netgalley.

[Scott Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I see a book by a Washington Post reporter recounting a racially charged incident involving the police, I expect a certain bias to creep into the narrative. I'm glad when I'm wrong. In the case of STANDOFF, Ms. Thompson does an outstanding job presenting every viewpoint as clearly and dispassionately as is humanly possible. The book dives deep into the psyche of the responding officers, their sense of loss, their desperate attempts to save lives and protect the public despite an often hostile and unappreciative citizenry. On the other hand, the book minces no words regarding the poor, and sometimes unlawful, decisions by police officers with regard to the use of force, which served as the stated catalyst for the events of July 7, 2016.

This is a fascinating account of a tragedy. It is also an unflinching look at what might be the greatest divide among Americans today, that of race and the culture that has grown up because of it. Anyone interested in understanding why police shootings have taken lives that should not have been taken, and the role race may or may not play in those decisions, needs to add STANDOFF to their reading list.

I had some quibbles with a few gun-related facts (.22mm cartridges, for example, and the statement asserting AK-74s are designed to shoot hollow point bullets) but these are mechanical things that did nothing to detract from the deeper insight into the character of the officers who put their lives on the line and the skepticism of the community who distrusts their actions based upon statistics and experience.

During the narrative, I found I wanted to argue not with Thompson, but with some of the characterizations of others she reports. One regarding the Kennedy assassination and its causes, I found misinformed, and the other being the oft-repeated observation that North Dallas continues to be monolithically white and conservative. (I would point to the voting record of District 32 to dispel this notion.)

I found this work highly informative, fair, balanced, and frank. My few nitpicks are just that and nothing more.

Highly recommended.

[layla · Rating 2 out of 5]

Going into this book, I thought I would be reading a book about race and policing. Well, that didn't end up happening as much as I was expecting. This book was described to be a reflection on the issues of race and policing through the reporting of one tragic event that left 5 families without a loved one. In small sections of this book discussed the systemic racism that existing in policing system but it did not go far enough. There was even more of a focus on a police officer who voted for Trump than actual victims of police brutality. There was also a lack of challenging to the idea that victims of police brutality are deserving of it as the author included viewpoints from various officers who defended officers that have killed unarmed Black individuals. It was absolutely tragic that 5 officers lost their lives and they shouldn't be forgotten but this book shouldn't have claimed to discuss race and policing when it primarily focused on the policing aspect.

If you want a book that actually discusses systemic racism in policing, I would check out books such as The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander, Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption by Bryan Stevenson, Policing Black Lives: State Violence in Canada from Slavery to Present by Robyn Maynard, Invisible No More: Police Violence Against Black Women and Women of Color by Andrea Ritchie and many more written by Black authors.

[Melissa McGuire · Rating 5 out of 5]

Non-fiction that reads like fiction because of the compelling and suspenseful story and empathetic characters. You’ll race through it, but it sticks with you. It makes you think. Although Thompson has clearly done a mountain of research and interviewing, this gifted writer never lets the pace get bogged down as she tells the story and context of events in Dallas, July 7th, 2016. Thank you Jamie Thompson for a great book. Keep writing and I’ll keep reading.

[Rebekah La loi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Three stars because I was bored through parts and had a hard time concentrating at times. Overall, I’m glad I read this and would recommend. I don’t see this as biased towards cops, although I can see how one would view it that way. Once you read it cover to cover though, I think the author did a good job bringing up controversial topics and being neutral. In my opinion, defending cops to any degree is seen as controversial these days and I don’t agree with that. People died and wives/children had to grow up without a partner or father, and that’s tragic no matter who you are, what you do, or what your skin color is. This book did not condone cop behavior and gives examples for when cops have been in the wrong. They also give the other opinion, of those who support cops, and also black police officers who support cops. One quote I liked in particular was “too blue to be black, too black to me blue” when a black officer had talked about leaving his black neighborhood behind and embracing a mostly white middle-class area, and how isolating he felt from both people. This book is eye opening and tragic, and if anything, aims to embrace the discomfort in talking about racism. Violence begets violence and I think this book showcases the tragedy in that.

[Fred Leland · Rating 5 out of 5]

To me the book Standoff is an well
Balanced and respectful look into the 2016 Dallas Texas shooting and killing of Five police officers and the wounding of 9 others. The book takes a look at both sides of the complicated topic of race and police and IMHO comes at it in a fair and impartial way. Dialog that took place between the negotiator and the subject are powerful and impactful.

The book will leave you with a different look into policing and the noble jobs they do and how they do it. It also leaves me wondering how we as a country ensure we look at every case involving a police use of force be looked at in cont Dr with the incident and not through the eyes of a polarized political climate we now find ourselves in. We must open our eyes and condemn the condemnable while commending the commendable. Perhaps this will help
Is all see each others points of view with open mind and prevent these types of mass killings? I highly recommend this book.

[Cindy Burnett (Thoughts from a Page) · Rating 5 out of 5]

On July 7, 2016, five Dallas law enforcement officers were killed and 11 people were wounded when a gunman opened fire at a downtown march protesting the deaths of two black men, Philando Castile and Alton Sterling, at the hands of police officers. Using exhaustive research and extensive firsthand accounts, Thompson provides a balanced accounting of that tragic day and the equally tragic events that led up to it, while also delving into the social and political forces that contributed. Her retelling of the shooting and its aftereffects is through the eyes of those present which is a very effective format. Sadly, a takeaway from Standoff is that not much has changed since 2016.

Listen to my author interviews here: https://www.thoughtsfromapage.com, and for more of my reviews, check out my Instagram account: https://www.instagram.com/thoughtsfro....

[Thomas W · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredible depiction of these tragic events told from the various perspectives of officers and doctors involved as well as family members. While troubling to hear certain details and the hate coming from the conversations with the shooter, the verbatim play by play from the negotiator is fascinating and impressive. Further evidence that our police might have a few bad apples as any profession does but are grossly under appreciated. Also appreciate the racial perspective of both sides involved and the reminder of Obama’s poor taste and further divisiveness in the aftermath. It’s a shame this incident is buried and not discussed with the same frequency and importance as those disparaging police activity.

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. I am totally blown away by the comprehensiveness of this book. It is so thorough in describing the perspectives of the people involved in this incident and the feeling of the time. I think it really resonates given the recent death of George Floyd. The author’s extensive hours of work on this project shine through. I encourage everyone curious about the perspectives of police involved in mass shooting events to read this book. It covers their backstories, the real-time experiences, and the aftermath. To the extent possible, the experiences of civilians are represented as well. Heartbreaking from beginning to end.

[Deep Frey · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's amazing how easy it is to forget some of the mass shootings in this country. Too much gun violence. I appreciate how this book gave all different perspectives.... black, white, police officer, doctor, civilian.... I was curious how much commentary there would be on police brutality or racism. The author's presentation was very matter of fact. She shared comments from the involved characters rather than present her own views.

I enjoyed the content. The only reason I give 3 stars is because the style was a little choppy.

[Eric · Rating 3 out of 5]

This quote from the publisher's blurb likely summarizes most of what you need to know before listening/reading, "These stories go to the heart of the deeply pressing issue of race and policing in our country and reflect America's divide over how to view the men and women assigned to protect us." The authors depicts that essence without coming down overly strongly on either side - but that's really not what he intended when he set out to tell this story.

[Tim McLean · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is very well written! I was glued to the story throughout. I love how each major participant’s background and internal thoughts are explored and expounded upon. I also appreciate the balanced portrayal from both the protestors and the police. This book should help any fair minded person understand and appreciate all sides of this issue, as the author did an outstanding job of presenting all sides equally!

[Neil Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intense Throughout

The author makes the reader feel like they were there on July 7, 2016. An intense and personal book that raises as many questions on beliefs as it does answer questions of what really happened that day, the impact left on those who bravely died and those that lived through it. Thoroughly researched. Highly recommended.

[Richard Pease · Rating 4 out of 5]

An engaging look at the 2016 assault on the Dallas Police Department. This book not only tells the story of the people involved based on their recollection of the event, it also gives insight on the continuing racial injustice challenges we face in society today. A compelling read that will make you angry and sad at the same time.

[Mam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Intense! This is a compelling narrative of what happens when we ignore the racial/societal divides that afflict our country. Much of the story is told from the viewpoint of the police, but I didn't feel that there was real bias toward their viewpoint, as did another reviewer. It is factual. It is brutal. It is heartbreaking. But it gives the reader some much needed insight.

[Stephen Donaldson · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent, unbiased, and personal account of the Dallas shooting. The author faces the chaos inherent in an active shooter, by slowing down and viewing the event from multiple, real life, perspectives.

[Hijinx Abound · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting look at the ambush in Dallas. It is woven through with discussion about Black Lives Matter and how this shooter came to commit this horrific crime.
Parts were really resonant and other parts felt a bit lecturey and off key with the rest of the story.

[Doug · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tremendous. Best book on the topic of policing, race, and active killers ever written. Could *possibly* have just been a long-form Hunter Thompson-style article instead of a book, but then who would have read it.

[Linda Manuel · Rating 3 out of 5]

Gripping account of police shooting. The aftermath was meh. I didn’t like the anti Trump rhetoric inserted. Violence against the police should never be tolerated, it should never be political talking point.

[Dallas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Extremely well researched by this author.

[Larry Gordon]

Standoff was very well written. Jamie did a phenomenal job in her research. I was there and didn't know half that information.

[Martha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read. Great recount of events and different perspectives. A must read for all who enjoy non-fiction.

[Kyle W · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent Account of Events

A very detailed and personal account of events by those who were actually there. The darkest day in American law enforcement since 9/11.

[Alexandra Gannett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very compelling!

[Justin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read this book.

[Tabitha Rohm · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. You go deep inside what the police were thinking and what they were doing during this rampage. It is truly a page turner.