Barricaded Suspect Results in Officer-Involved Shooting

On July 30, 2024, at approximately 1:16 p.m., the Pueblo Police Department received calls from residents in the area of the 2100 block of Aztec Drive, advising there was a male armed with what they described as an AR-15 style rifle, firing rounds.

Officers with the Pueblo Police Department responded to the area in an attempt to contact the suspect. The male suspect was later seen entering a residence in the 2100 block of South Drive. Officers surrounded the residence and tried to communicate with the suspect to exit the residence. The suspect shot at officers during these attempts. At least one officer engaged the suspect and returned fire. Officers continued to secure the scene and attempted to communicate with the suspect without success.

The Pueblo Police Department SWAT Team responded along with Crisis Negotiators and Drone Units to manage the unfolding scene. Attempts to contact the suspect continued to be unsuccessful and there was no further engagement by the suspect. SWAT Team members entered the residence and located the suspect, who was later declared deceased by medical personnel. There were no other persons located inside the residence. No officers or other civilians were injured during the incident.

This incident is now being investigated as an officer involved shooting. The 10th Judicial Critical Incident Response Team, led by the Colorado Bureau of Investigations, will be handling the investigation. The involved officers were placed on administrative leave per standard protocol. After appropriate notifications, the Pueblo County Coroner will identify the deceased suspect. The Coroner's Office will also determine the cause and manner of death.

It should be noted that information was released during on scene interviews with news agencies earlier today, regarding the suspect entering an apartment in the area. This information has not been confirmed at this time and will require further investigation.

The information contained in this press release is based on preliminary information available at the time of its drafting. The Pueblo Police Department's understanding of this incident may change as additional evidence is collected, analyzed, and reviewed. The Pueblo Police Department does not draw any conclusions about whether the officers acted consistent with our policies and the law until all the facts are known and the investigation is complete. The purpose of this press release is to provide timely information to the public. In consideration of the foregoing, please be advised that any statements expressed herein are subject to change at any time.

###