A sheriff’s deputy in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, fatally shot an armed suspect during a tense active shooter situation at a family entertainment center, potentially averting a larger tragedy.
At a Glance
- Douglas County Sheriff’s deputy shot and killed an armed male suspect outside Main Event entertainment center
- A female suspect was arrested, and another woman was injured inside the venue
- The incident occurred in a “packed” business, with multiple rounds fired inside
- Swift action by law enforcement likely prevented further casualties
Swift Response to Active Shooter Call
A Douglas County Sheriff’s deputy neutralized a potential active shooter threat at the Main Event entertainment center in Highlands Ranch, Colorado. The incident, which unfolded just before midnight, prompted an immediate response from law enforcement after reports of shots fired inside the packed venue.
Sheriff Darren Weekly provided details on the rapid response, stating, “We had a deputy sheriff that was just down the street when the call came out. The deputy immediately responded emergent, and then at that he encountered a male in the parking lot with a handgun in his hand.”
This quick arrival likely prevented further violence and protected the numerous patrons inside the establishment.
Colorado cop kills ‘active shooter’ outside Highlands Ranch family fun center: sheriff https://t.co/zCOxXx9LDV
— New York Post (@nypost) February 9, 2025
Upon arrival, the deputy encountered an armed male suspect in the parking lot. Despite clear orders to drop his weapon, the suspect failed to comply.
Sheriff Weekly described the tense moments that followed: “He ordered the male to drop the weapon, gave several commands. The male continued between two vehicles. At that time the male turned toward the deputy, and at that time, he was shot.”
The suspect succumbed to his injuries shortly after being shot. This swift action by the deputy potentially saved numerous lives, given the crowded nature of the venue and the ongoing threat.
Inside the Entertainment Center
While the confrontation outside was unfolding, a separate but related incident was taking place inside Main Event.
Sheriff Weekly revealed, “One female had been shot in the chest and also has a wound on her foot. That female was shot by another female, who is currently in custody.”
The connection between the incidents inside and outside the establishment is still under investigation.
The gravity of the situation was not lost on law enforcement or witnesses. The packed venue, combined with gunfire, created a volatile and dangerous environment that could have resulted in far more casualties had it not been for the rapid police response.
As the dust settles, authorities are working diligently to piece together the events of that night. The 23rd Judicial District Critical Incident Response Team will investigate the deputy’s use of force, as is standard procedure. Meanwhile, the deputy involved has been placed on paid administrative leave pending the investigation’s outcome.
