A Thornton police officer fatally shot a man after the individual allegedly fired shots in a parking lot adjacent to the Margaret Carpenter Recreation Center, according to authorities.

Just before 8:30 a.m., the Thornton Police Department issued a tweet regarding a significant police presence in the vicinity of the Margaret Carpenter Recreation Center, located at the 11100 block of Colorado Boulevard.

Erratic Behavior Leads to Confrontation

The incident unfolded around 7:55 a.m. when an officer observed a vehicle driving erratically near the intersection of East 112th Avenue and Colorado Boulevard. Upon attempting to engage with the driver, the individual reportedly fled the scene on foot, prompting pursuit by the officer.

Exchange of Gunfire

According to statements from Thornton police, the confrontation escalated when the suspect allegedly discharged a firearm at the officer within the recreation center’s parking lot. In response, the officer discharged their weapon, striking the suspect.

Fatal Outcome

Following the exchange of gunfire, the suspect was transported to a nearby medical facility, where they were later pronounced deceased. The officer involved in the shooting did not sustain any injuries during the incident, as confirmed by Thornton police.

Scene Overview

Aerial footage captured by SkyFOX depicted a notable law enforcement presence within the recreation center’s parking lot. Additionally, a vehicle with apparent damage to its front windows was visible at the scene, though it remains undetermined whether the vehicle belonged to the suspect or an unrelated party.

Eyewitness Accounts

Courtney Fromm, a reporter from NEWS.ORG 31 present at the scene, interviewed witnesses who indicated that they were not instructed to evacuate the area or remain indoors while law enforcement conducted their investigation.

Subsequent Procedures

The identity of the deceased individual will be disclosed by the Adams County Coroner’s Office as the investigation progresses. Moreover, oversight of the inquiry will transition to the 17th Judicial District’s Critical Incident Response Team. Consistent with departmental protocol, the involved officer will be placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.

Conclusion: Ongoing Investigation

As authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fatal shooting at the Margaret Carpenter Recreation Center, the community awaits further details regarding the events leading to the tragic outcome. Stay updated with TLNA for the latest developments on this ongoing investigation.

Sources:

• Thornton Police Department
• NEWS.ORG 31 News

<a href=”https://kdvr.com/news/local/police-investigating-shooting-outside-a-thornton-rec-center/”>Source</a>