Ashley had time to minister to Nichols, to appeal to purpose in life for serving God,and for him to atone for sins in this world. Hero? Heroes are given that name for brave deeds or faithful service. Ashley was faithful to God, did what a Christian should do, and then got in touch with the police. She probably saved a lot more people by not escaping and calming Nichols down and changing his mind set as to what his life will be in contrast to a shootout with police snipers.
OMG..what a wonderful summation of what I was trying to say!