PUEBLO, CO — A violent confrontation between law enforcement and a suspect left three officers injured and one suspect dead Tuesday evening. The incident occurred around 7:15 p.m. near the intersection of West Mesa Avenue and Cedar Street, close to Bessemer Park in Pueblo.
According to the Pueblo Police Department, officers responded to a call reporting that an officer had been shot. Law enforcement from the Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office quickly joined the scene, where additional shots were exchanged. Police said the suspect fled the area and continued shooting at officers. Officers returned fire during the exchange, and the suspect was struck.
The suspect, whose identity is pending release by the Pueblo County Coroner’s Office, was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have not released further details about the suspect at this time.
Three officers were struck by gunfire during the incident. They were transported to a local hospital and are currently in stable condition. The names of the officers have not been released, but the department has confirmed that they are expected to recover from their injuries.
The 10th Judicial District Critical Incident Response Team (CRIT), led by the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI), has taken over the investigation. The team, which is responsible for looking into incidents involving law enforcement use of force, will continue to gather evidence and determine the sequence of events.
In response to the shooting, Colorado Governor Jared Polis issued a statement expressing support for the law enforcement officers involved. “Our men and women in uniform work every day on the front lines, and put themselves in harm’s way to protect our lives and communities,” said Polis. “Pueblo is a strong community, especially in tough times like this. I am closely monitoring this situation and getting regular updates, and The Colorado Bureau of Investigation is actively supporting the investigation with support from State Patrol. I applaud the actions of everyone involved in stopping the violent suspect, and am praying for the three officers who were injured in this attack.”
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to gather more details about the circumstances leading up to the gunfire exchange. Residents of Pueblo have expressed concern and support for the officers, as the community comes together during this difficult time.
