Lakewood Police Officer Killed, Three Wounded in Shooting Near RTD Bus

Lakewood Police Officer Killed and Three Others Wounded in Bus Stop Gunfight

The shooter was also killed by police gunfire during the confrontation at West Colfax Avenue and Wadsworth Boulevard.

The violent encounter unfolded around 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, November 5, 2026, when four police agents responded to reports of a suspicious person near the intersection. According to Lakewood police spokesperson John Romero, the suspect was trying to get on an RTD-contracted bus servicing Route 76 and started firing at agents as they approached him. Police returned fire, striking the man, who was pronounced dead at the scene.

Civilian and Officers Hospitalized After Gunfight

A civilian was also wounded in the gunfight and taken to a hospital for treatment, the office of Colorado Governor Jared Polis confirmed. Some of the injured police agents were transported to Denver Health, where one ultimately succumbed to their injuries. CBS Colorado reported that a witness inside a nearby pawn shop heard 13 shots fired as officers surrounded the back of the bus and fired into it. CommonSpirit St. Anthony Hospital later reported receiving one patient with non-life-threatening injuries, though hospital officials did not confirm whether that patient was an officer.

Outside Denver Health, a large police presence gathered Thursday night as law enforcement vehicles lined up ahead of a procession for the fallen agent. Agencies from across the Denver metropolitan area posted statements of support as news of the tragedy spread.

We ask everyone to keep those affected by this tragedy close in their thoughts and prayers.

Ongoing Investigation Into the Shootout

The Jefferson County Critical Incident Team is investigating police actions during the shooting. Authorities have not yet publicly released the name of the agent who died, the identities of the three wounded agents, or the name of the suspect. Romero mentioned during a press conference that it appeared the suspect had been involved in a hit-and-run earlier in the day.

Regional Transportation District officials released a statement on X.com emphasizing that the agency was deeply concerned by the shooting aboard its bus. RTD personnel responded immediately and are cooperating fully with the Lakewood Police Department.

Governor Polis Expresses Grief over Fallen Officer

Governor Polis expressed grief over the loss of life, thanking first responders for running toward danger.

My heart goes out to their family and friends.

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