Well, the fanfiction might start with the moment Reid gets shot. It could be during a case, perhaps he was trying to protect a victim or was just in the wrong place at the wrong time. The shooter could be someone related to the unsub they were chasing. After he gets shot, the medical team would be called in, and his survival would be uncertain. This would create a lot of tension and drama in the story.
One possible scenario in such a fanfiction could be that Reid's injury is so severe that it makes him reevaluate his life. He might have flashbacks of his past traumas while in the hospital, and this could lead to some deep character development. His colleagues could also have some self - reflection about how they take risks in their line of work.
In many Reid - gets - shot fanfictions, it often focuses on the team's reaction. His friends, like Morgan and Garcia, would be extremely worried. They might rush him to the hospital while trying to keep their emotions in check. The angst and worry would be palpable as they wait for news on his condition.
One possible direction for the fanfic could be a sort of 'what - if' scenario. For example, what if Reid's injury had long - term consequences? It could change his role in the BAU, his relationships, and even his approach to solving cases.
One common theme is the team's unity. When Reid gets shot, the team comes together, showing their strong bond. They support each other and are determined to find out who hurt Reid.
One scenario could be that Reid gets hurt during a chase. Maybe he trips and falls while running after an unsub, and sprains his ankle. This would slow him down and make him vulnerable.
One common theme is the team's reaction. They are like a family, so when Reid is shot, it shows their loyalty and how they come together to support him.
One great fanfic could be where Reid's friends on the team struggle to save him after he's shot in the neck. It might focus on the medical procedures they try to perform in a high - stress situation.
You can try fanfiction websites like Archive of Our Own (AO3). There are likely many stories there about Reid getting hurt in Criminal Minds. Just use the search function and type in relevant keywords like 'Criminal Minds Reid hurt'.
It could be that Reid has unknowingly crossed paths with a criminal organization. They kidnap him to extract information about the FBI's investigations into their activities. Reid has to endure torture and interrogation, but he also tries to analyze his captors' behavior to find a way to escape.
One popular fanfic idea could be Reid getting injured during a chase scene. Maybe he sprains his ankle while running after an unsub, and the team has to adjust their plans accordingly. His injury might slow them down a bit, but also show how the team rallies around him.
Well, perhaps the shooting of JJ could be part of a larger conspiracy against the BAU. The team starts to uncover clues that lead them to believe JJ was targeted not just randomly but as a way to get to the whole team. As JJ recovers, she may have some post - trauma that affects her ability to return to work immediately.
One possible plot development could be the team's reaction. They would be in shock and immediately spring into action to find the shooter. Garcia might be the most affected, as she and Morgan are close. Another development could be Morgan's struggle with his injury. He could have flashbacks of past cases or his own traumas while he's in the hospital recovering. And finally, the hunt for the person who shot him could lead to a new and dangerous unsub discovery.