COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) — In the early hours of Saturday, July 5, 2025, downtown Colorado Springs was once again the scene of a fatal officer-involved shooting — the second such incident in the city in less than two weeks.
According to the Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD), a male suspect died at the scene after an encounter with officers responding to reports of a disturbance near Pikes Peak Avenue and Tejon Street, a densely trafficked area surrounded by nightclubs and bars.
The shooting has prompted a large-scale investigation and renewed conversations about policing, downtown safety, and the use of force protocols within the city.
What Happened: Timeline of Events
At approximately 1:30 a.m., CSPD officers were dispatched to the area of Pikes Peak Avenue near the intersection of Tejon Street following a report of a disturbance. According to police, the caller indicated that a man had displayed a firearm just as several nearby nightclubs were closing for the night—a critical time when foot traffic is high and tensions can rise quickly.
Officers monitoring downtown surveillance cameras were able to visually confirm a suspect matching the description, and noted that he appeared to be armed.
As officers approached the man, he reportedly attempted to flee. Police say that during the pursuit, the suspect reached toward his waistband, prompting one officer to fire at least one shot, which struck the suspect.
The man was pronounced dead at the scene. A firearm was recovered from the area near his body.
No officers or bystanders were injured during the incident.
Downtown Streets Closed, Investigation Underway
As of 8 a.m. Saturday, an expansive portion of downtown remains cordoned off as investigators work to process the scene. The following areas are closed to both pedestrian and vehicle traffic:
- Pikes Peak Avenue from Tejon Street to Nevada Avenue
- Tejon Street from Colorado Avenue to Kiowa Street
These closures are expected to remain in place until the scene is cleared and evidence collection is completed.
In accordance with Colorado state law, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office has been designated as the independent agency leading the investigation into the shooting. This ensures transparency and impartiality, particularly in incidents involving deadly force by law enforcement.
Body-Worn Camera Footage to Be Released
CSPD confirmed that within 21 days, a “significant event briefing video” will be released to the public. The video will include body-worn camera footage, relevant 911 audio, and other verified facts that are permitted to be shared under state transparency laws.
This type of briefing is standard procedure under CSPD policy and is intended to provide clarity and accountability in officer-involved shootings. Officials are urging the public to be patient while the facts are gathered and verified.
Community Impact and Context
This is the second deadly officer-involved shooting in Colorado Springs in less than two weeks. The previous incident, which occurred on June 23 at an apartment complex, also involved an armed suspect fatally shot by police. That case remains under investigation as well.
The proximity of these two incidents — both in time and geography — is sparking concern and reflection within the community. Some are calling for closer scrutiny of CSPD’s use-of-force training and policies, while others are urging the public to wait for all the facts to emerge before forming conclusions.
Downtown residents, business owners, and weekend visitors were visibly shaken by the heavy police presence early Saturday morning, with many asking whether more can be done to prevent violent escalations—especially during peak nightlife hours.
Police Seeking Witnesses
CSPD is actively encouraging anyone who witnessed the shooting or has relevant photos, videos, or other information to contact the department at (719) 444-7000.
Even those who were in the vicinity but unsure if they saw anything of value are being asked to come forward, as even small details could prove crucial to investigators.
Looking Ahead
As the city heads into a holiday weekend meant for celebration, the weight of another fatal shooting — particularly one involving law enforcement — casts a sobering shadow. Questions about policing, safety in public spaces, and community trust are likely to continue as more details emerge.
For now, officials are asking the public to remain calm, stay away from the active crime scene, and allow the independent investigation to run its course.
Further updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
