Lakewood Officer Killed and Three Wounded in Shooting

Officers responded at about 6:30 p.m. on November 5 to a report of a suspicious person trying to board a Regional Transportation District bus near Colfax Avenue and Wadsworth Boulevard in Lakewood, a Denver suburb. Police spokesperson John Romero said the individual could have been involved in a vehicle collision followed by leaving the scene earlier on November 5.

When officers approached, the suspect opened fire, striking four officers. One later died from their injuries, Romero said. Police shot the suspect, who was pronounced dead at the scene. The names of the officer and suspect have not been released.

The three surviving officers were receiving hospital care, but authorities had not provided details about their conditions. One other person was injured and taken to a hospital; police did not immediately say what caused that injury. It was also unclear whether the gunfire occurred on or near the bus.

Colorado Gov. Jared Polis said he was heartbroken by the officer’s death and expressed sympathy for the officer’s family and the wounded. The Colorado State Patrol assisted at the scene, and Polis said it took part in a procession honoring the officer.

A special team from Jefferson County is handling the inquiry, aided by state investigators. RTD said its personnel responded and were cooperating with Lakewood police. The transit agency said the safety of customers, employees and partners remained a priority.