When a sniper starts targeting the Los Angeles Fire Department, 20 Squad are called in to help protect the firefighters. Tan feels under pressure to prove himself, while the issue of Street's mother fractures his relationship with Molly.
Tropes
- Both Sides Have a Point: In regards to their views on Street's mother, Molly points out that Karen was a victim of Domestic Abuse and her behaviour is a side effect of that, but as Street points out, her Manipulative Bitch tendencies ruined his childhood and nearly cost him his career with S.W.A.T.
- Death Seeker: The sniper has no problem with dying so long as he gets revenge on the firefighters he holds responsible for his family's deaths. Street and Chris take him in alive to deny him the satisfaction.
- Freudian Excuse Is No Excuse: The sniper's refusal to listen to the extenuating circumstances that stopped the LA Fire Department from saving his family and willingness to shoot firefighters who had nothing to do with what happened makes it difficult for S.W.A.T. to feel any sympathy for him.
- Friendly Rivalry: S.W.A.T. has this going with the L.A. Fire Department: they snark over who's got the most dangerous job and make wisecracks at the other side's expense, but when the chips are down, both groups have the other's back.
- I Owe You My Life: Deacon giving first aid to one of the fire fighters shot by the sniper keeps the latter alive long enough for him to get live saving surgery.
- It's Personal: The villain of the episode holds the Los Angeles Fire Department responsible for letting his family die.
- What the Hell, Hero?: Hondo tears into Tan for putting himself at risk with a dangerous move during their operation.
