Lakewood Shooting Leaves One Officer Dead, Three Injured on RTD Bus

Lakewood Shooting Overview

A Lakewood police officer was killed and three other officers were wounded after a suspect opened fire on them aboard a Regional Transportation District (RTD) bus Thursday night. The gunfire erupted shortly after officers responded to a report of a suspicious individual near West Colfax Avenue and Wadsworth Boulevard at about 6:30 p.m.

Lakewood Police Response

Lakewood Police Department agents boarded the northbound RTD bus after spotting the suspect, who had been involved in an earlier hit‑and‑run crash. The suspect immediately discharged his weapon, striking four officers. Police returned fire, killing the gunman on the scene.

Bystander Injuries

A civilian bystander was also hit during the exchange. The injured witness was transported to Denver Health, where he was treated and later released. Hospital officials confirmed that all patients from the incident were discharged, with the civilian’s condition described as stable and non‑life‑threatening.

Community and Agency Reaction

Dozens of officers gathered outside Denver Health to honor the fallen officer, with a bagpiper playing “Amazing Grace.” A procession of police vehicles later departed the hospital. Governor Jared Polis expressed heartbreak over the loss and thanked law‑enforcement personnel for their service.

Lakewood Police Department spokesperson John Romero emphasized the department’s sorrow and the need to support the families of the victims. The department’s Facebook page later noted that neighboring agencies would increase patrols throughout Lakewood in the coming days, allowing officers time to grieve.

Investigation and Ongoing Updates

Authorities have not released details about the red vehicle involved in the earlier hit‑and‑run crash. Police indicated that further information would be provided on Friday. RTD officials stated that passenger safety remains their highest priority and expressed concern for those affected.

For additional context on recent incidents involving firearms on public transportation, see the Tampa Citibank shooting coverage.

Sources: The Denver Post, KDVR, ABC News - Breaking News, Latest News and Videos.