January 1, Officer Killed in Line of Duty as Suspect Opens Fire Near Colorado Bus

Wyatt’s Take

• A brave Lakewood officer lost his life protecting the public from a violent attack that happened in seconds.
• Local police and state leaders are standing together to honor the fallen and support the wounded.
• This tragedy reminds every American that our law enforcement officers face real danger every single day.

A Colorado police officer was killed and three others were wounded when a suspect opened fire near a bus outside Denver Thursday evening.

Lakewood police responded to a report of a suspicious person at the intersection of Colfax Avenue and Wadsworth Boulevard around 6:30 p.m.

Officers found the suspect trying to board a bus when he suddenly opened fire, striking four of them.

“We are very sorry to report that one of those agents has been pronounced dead of their injuries,” Lakewood Police Public Information Officer John Romero said during a news conference.

The suspect was shot by officers and died at the scene.

A civilian was also injured and taken to a local hospital for treatment.

Police have not released details about the surviving officers’ conditions.

“Within seconds of agents approaching the suspect, the suspect opened fire on our agents,” Romero said.

Romero offered a heartfelt message to the fallen officer’s family.

“We just want the family to know that we love them, that we’re here for them, and Lakewood Police Department is a family, and we will be here for each other.”

Colorado Governor Jared Polis released a statement expressing his sorrow.

“Law enforcement put their lives on the line for our safety everyday and I am heartbroken to learn that a Lakewood Police Agent was killed in the line of duty this evening,” Polis wrote.

“My heart goes out to their family and friends,” he continued. “My thoughts are also with the three agents who are still receiving care at area hospitals, as well as the civilian who was wounded, and I wish them a full and speedy recovery. Thank you to law enforcement who run into danger to keep us safe and to protect our communities.”

Polis noted the Colorado State Patrol was assisting at the scene and taking part in a procession honoring the fallen officer.

The Jefferson County Critical Incident Response Team is leading the investigation with help from the Colorado Bureau of Investigation.

RTD released a statement saying the agency is deeply concerned by the shooting and remains focused on the safety of customers and employees.

Wyatt Matters

These officers put their lives on the line so families across Colorado can live in peace. When one of them falls, the whole community feels it, and we should never forget the price they pay to keep our streets safe.