Rochester Man Identified as Victim in Pueblo Shooting After Trying to Help Couple
PUEBLO, Colo. (November 1, 2025) — Police have identified the victim of a tragic early-morning shooting on Pueblo’s south side as 27-year-old Lejend Watson, a resident of Rochester, New York, who was in town visiting friends.
The fatal incident occurred around 2:25 a.m. Saturday near the Uplands Townhomes off Acero Avenue, not far from the Belmont neighborhood, according to the Pueblo Police Department. Witnesses told investigators that Watson had just left a social gathering in the area when he stopped after noticing a couple arguing outside the townhomes.
In what friends describe as a selfless act of kindness, Watson reportedly stepped in to defuse the situation — an attempt to calm tempers that turned fatal within moments. According to police, several gunshots were heard shortly afterward, prompting multiple 911 calls from nearby residents.
When officers arrived, they discovered Watson lying near a parked vehicle suffering from gunshot wounds. Emergency personnel from the Pueblo Fire Department attempted life-saving measures, but despite their efforts, Watson tragically passed at the scene.
Detectives quickly secured the area and began canvassing nearby homes for surveillance footage. Several witnesses were interviewed, and investigators are actively searching for the suspect believed to have fled the scene on foot. Police have not yet released information about a possible motive or suspect description.
“From what we’ve gathered so far, it appears Mr. Watson was simply trying to help,” said Sgt. Frank Ortega, a spokesperson for the Pueblo Police Department. “He stepped in to prevent what looked like a domestic dispute, and unfortunately, that decision cost him his life. He did nothing wrong — he was trying to do the right thing.”
Family members from Rochester were notified early Saturday morning and are now making arrangements to travel to Colorado. Loved ones describe Lejend Watson as a gentle soul — a man known for his humor, generosity, and unwavering willingness to help others.
“Lejend wasn’t the type to walk away when someone needed help,” said his sister, Danielle Watson. “He always believed in doing what’s right, even when it wasn’t easy. That’s who he was — he had a heart bigger than most.”
Watson had been working as a mechanic and aspiring entrepreneur in Rochester. Friends say he had recently talked about expanding his business ideas and loved exploring new cities. His visit to Pueblo was meant to be a brief getaway to see friends he’d met through work.
Neighbors near the Uplands Townhomes told reporters the sound of gunfire startled the normally quiet area. “We heard three or four loud pops, then someone shouting for help,” said Miguel Perez, who lives nearby. “By the time police arrived, it was too late. It’s just heartbreaking.”
Police are urging anyone with information to contact the Pueblo Police Department at 719-553-2502 or remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at 719-542-STOP (7867).
As the investigation continues, tributes are pouring in online. Friends from both Rochester and Pueblo are sharing memories of Watson’s kindness and bravery, calling him a “true friend with a heart of gold.”
“Lejend died trying to help,” wrote one family member. “That’s how we’ll always remember him — brave, selfless, and full of love.”
The Pueblo Police Department continues to investigate what they are calling one of the city’s most tragic acts of violence this year.
