Las Vegas police say a potentially serious act of violence may have been prevented after officers arrested a 36-year-old suspect accused of stealing a vehicle, making terroristic threats, and possessing a large cache of weapons.
According to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, Allison Howlett was taken into custody on June 27 following a report from a former partner who contacted 911 about a domestic dispute, a stolen car, and escalating threats of violence.
Initial Call
Police said the situation began when Howlett’s former partner reported that her vehicle had been taken without permission and that it contained ammunition. The caller also told dispatchers that Howlett had made statements suggesting a possible “suicide by cop” scenario and threats of a mass shooting.
The former partner was able to track the vehicle’s location electronically and notified authorities when it was parked inside a garage at Sunset Station Hotel. Henderson Police Chief Reggie Rader confirmed those details during a news conference, according to reporting by Fox News.
Police Encounter
When officers arrived at the parking garage, they found Howlett inside the vehicle with loud music playing. Police said she repeatedly refused to comply with commands to exit the car.
Authorities were eventually able to engage with Howlett by offering her water, which led her to partially lower a window. Officers then executed a plan to remove her from the vehicle. During the arrest, police deployed a taser before taking Howlett into custody.
No injuries were reported during the encounter.
Weapons Recovered
Law enforcement officials said the search of the vehicle revealed an extensive collection of firearms and related equipment.
Chief Rader stated that Howlett was sitting on a handgun at the time of the arrest. Police also located a fully automatic MP5-style machine gun equipped with a suppressor in the back seat within arm’s reach.
In total, officers recovered 22 weapons, including handguns, rifles, suppressors, and at least one fully automatic firearm, according to LVMPD.
Investigation
Authorities said the quantity and type of weapons raised serious concerns about Howlett’s intentions. Investigators believe the suspect may have been planning a violent attack, potentially at a casino on the Las Vegas Strip, though police emphasized that no attack had occurred.
LVMPD credited the former partner’s call and rapid coordination between agencies for preventing a possible tragedy.
Prior Threats
Police said this was not the first time Howlett had allegedly made threats of mass violence. According to Assistant Sheriff Dori Koren, investigators learned the suspect had issued similar statements over an extended period.
During a news conference, authorities played an alleged recording from 2024 in which Howlett stated she might carry out a mass shooting if federal authorities did not arrest her. Investigators said that recording is now part of the ongoing case.
Charges
Howlett now faces multiple criminal charges, including weapons-related offenses and making terroristic threats. Court records show bail has been set at $500,000.
Police said the investigation remains active, and additional charges could be considered as evidence continues to be reviewed.
Who was arrested by Las Vegas police?
Police arrested 36-year-old Allison Howlett.
Where was the suspect located?
Inside a garage at Sunset Station Hotel.
What weapons were found?
Police recovered 22 firearms and suppressors.
Did an attack occur?
No attack occurred, police intervened beforehand.
What is the suspect’s bail amount?
Bail has been set at $500,000.
