A Lakewood police officer was killed and three others were wounded Thursday evening when a suspect opened fire near a bus stop outside Denver, authorities said. The suspect was also killed in the exchange.
The incident occurred around 6:30 p.m. near the intersection of Colfax Avenue and Wadsworth Boulevard. Lakewood police officers responded to a report of a suspicious person attempting to board a bus. According to Lakewood Police Public Information Officer John Romero, the suspect opened fire on the officers immediately upon their approach.
One officer was pronounced dead at the scene due to their injuries. Romero stated that a civilian was also injured and transported to a local hospital. The conditions of the three surviving officers were not immediately released.
Colorado Governor Jared Polis issued a statement expressing his condolences. "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 also extended well wishes to the wounded officers and the injured civilian.
The Jefferson County Critical Incident Response Team, with assistance from the Colorado Bureau of Investigation, is leading the investigation into the officer-involved shooting. The Regional Transportation District (RTD) released a statement expressing concern over the incident and reaffirming its commitment to safety for its customers and employees.