Escaping an abusive relationship is one of the hardest and bravest decisions a parent can make. Many survivors leave dangerous situations hoping to build a safer future for themselves and their children.
However, for some victims of domestic violence, the fear does not completely disappear even after separation. A heartbreaking case from Colorado has once again highlighted how dangerous abusive situations can remain, even after a relationship ends.
A Colorado mother survived a terrifying shooting allegedly carried out by her ex-husband while their young children sat inside the car. The shocking case has now ended with a lengthy prison sentence for the man responsible.
Colorado Man Sentenced After Shooting Ex-Wife in Front of Children
Longmont resident Brandon Allen, 48, has been sentenced to 41 years in prison after pleading guilty to several charges connected to a violent domestic violence attack against his ex-wife, Nicki Douglass-Johansen.
The incident happened in March 2024 outside the victim’s home while their 7-year-old twins were sitting in the backseat of the car. According to investigators, Allen called 911 after the shooting and reportedly told dispatchers, “I think I just killed my ex-wife.”
Authorities said Allen fired multiple shots into the vehicle where Nicki and the children were sitting before fleeing the scene.
Mother Seriously Injured During Attack
According to arrest documents, one of the bullets struck Nicki Douglass-Johansen in the neck, damaging her carotid artery. Reports stated that the bullet moved through her body before shattering her jaw. She was also shot in the thigh during the attack.
Despite the horrifying injuries, Nicki survived the shooting.
Court records stated that the couple’s twins were sitting in the backseat while preparing to go to the store with their mother when the attack happened. Thankfully, neither child was physically injured.
However, investigators said the children were terrified during the shooting and believed their father might also shoot them.
Children Hid in Fear During the Shooting
According to the affidavit, one of the children told investigators that he and his sister quickly ducked down in their seats because they feared their father would continue shooting.
After Allen left the area, the children reportedly rolled down the car window and screamed for someone nearby to call 911.
Investigators also revealed heartbreaking comments allegedly made by the children moments after the shooting. According to court documents, the twins worried their mother had been shot in the head and questioned whether she would survive or remember them.
The emotional trauma caused by the attack deeply affected both children and their family members.
Grandmother Heard Gunshots From Inside Home
Nicki’s mother, Martha Johansen, was reportedly inside the home when the shooting happened. According to reports, she heard two gunshots from an upstairs bedroom before learning her daughter had been attacked.
Police quickly responded to the scene and later located Allen, who attempted to flee from officers before being arrested after a brief pursuit.
Investigators stated that officers discovered empty beer cans, alcohol bottles, and butane cans inside Allen’s vehicle after his arrest. Authorities also claimed he appeared intoxicated, with slurred speech, bloodshot eyes, and the smell of alcohol on his breath.
Brandon Allen Receives 41-Year Prison Sentence
In May 2026, Allen was sentenced by a Boulder County judge after pleading guilty to attempted murder, child ab*se, vehicular eluding, criminal mischief, and other violent crime charges.
Officials described the attack as a brutal act of domestic violence that could easily have ended in multiple deaths.
Boulder County District Attorney Michael Dougherty stated that the victim survived because of her courage and the quick actions of her children. He also said Allen deserved the lengthy prison sentence because of the violent nature of his actions and what prosecutors described as a lack of genuine remorse.
Domestic Violence Cases Continue to Raise Concern
The Colorado case has once again drawn attention to the long-term dangers faced by survivors of domestic ab*se, especially parents who continue to share custody or maintain contact with abusive former partners.
Many victims leave relationships hoping to create safer lives for themselves and their children, but situations involving threats, violence, and fear can continue long after separation.
Support groups and domestic violence organisations often encourage victims to seek legal protection, counselling, and community support when leaving abusive situations. Experts also stress the importance of taking threats seriously and creating safety plans for survivors and children.
