DENVER, CO — The Denver Police Department has released body-worn camera footage showing an officer shooting a 17-year-old male suspected of attempted murder as he fled authorities in Paco Sánchez Park. The teen, who police say was armed at the time, was struck in the leg and remains hospitalized.
Incident Unfolds in Paco Sánchez Park
The events began around 10:40 p.m. on Feb. 24 when officers responded to multiple ShotSpotter alerts in the 1300 block of Lowell Boulevard. Upon arrival, they discovered three shell casings in the area. A 911 caller reported seeing a group of individuals on scooters and bikes fleeing the scene.
Officers later located a group of four juveniles matching the description near West 13th Avenue and Knox Court and followed them into the park, Denver Police Cmdr. Matt Clark stated during a Monday briefing.
Officer Identifies Shooting Suspect
One officer recognized a 17-year-old in the group as a suspect in an earlier shooting incident from early February, where shots were fired into a home while it was occupied.
According to Clark, the officer spotted the teen holding a firearm and ordered him to drop the weapon. The suspect then turned his shoulder toward the officer, prompting the officer to open fire.
Bodycam Footage Captures Shooting
Footage from the officer’s body-worn camera shows the suspect running as the officer shouts, “Drop the (expletive) gun, I will shoot you.” One second later, the officer fires.
In total, the officer discharged his weapon 10 times. Moments later, police caught up with the teen, who was lying on the ground with a visible leg wound. The officer, still armed, commands, “Drop the gun, I will (expletive) kill you.”
“I don’t have a gun, sir,” the suspect can be heard responding. “You guys shot me for nothing.”
Officers provided medical aid at the scene, applying a tourniquet before transporting the teen to the hospital. He remains in custody and is expected to recover.
Weapons Recovered at the Scene
Investigators later discovered a Glock handgun along the park path with a round in the chamber, as well as a separate magazine elsewhere in the area.
Additionally, another teen seen running in the video was arrested on weapons charges. Police say he was carrying a Glock with an extended magazine and an auto sear, a device that converts a firearm into an automatic weapon.
Police Chief Defends Officer’s Actions
Denver Police Chief Ron Thomas stated during the briefing that he believes the officer’s response was justified, given the perceived threat.
“He perceived a significant threat to our community and responded appropriately,” Thomas said.
The 17-year-old remains in custody on suspicion of attempted murder related to the February shooting, as the investigation continues.