Community Briefing, OIS 16000 Block of Columbine St. (10/09/2024) скачать в хорошем качестве

Community Briefing, OIS 16000 Block of Columbine St. (10/09/2024)

On October 9th, 2024, around 8 a.m., Thornton Police Officers were dispatched to reports of gunfire inside a home in the 16000 block of Columbine Street. Callers reported that a man, later identified as William Skells, was firing a gun and yelling inside the residence. They also reported an alarm going off, and smoke coming from the back door. When officers arrived, they heard both the alarm and shouting from inside the home. Initial observations suggested that Skells was likely alone inside. Officers began attempting to communicate with him, urging him to come out with his hands up. Soon after, officers heard intermittent gunfire coming from within the residence. While continuing negotiations, they requested the Northglenn-Thornton SWAT team to respond. During the standoff, Skells began firing at officers. Two Thornton officers were injured - one by shrapnel, and another sustained a gunshot wound. Thankfully, both injuries were non-life-threatening. About fifteen minutes later, Skells appeared on the back porch. Officers gave him repeated commands to show his hands. When he failed to comply and continued to pose a threat, officers fired, striking him. When the Northglenn-Thornton SWAT team arrived on scene and made entry, they located Skells, who was deceased. We recognize that incidents like this can be difficult and may raise concerns within our community. While the investigation into this incident has concluded, we are sharing this video to provide transparency and help our community understand what occurred, including the findings, footage, and key details. This incident was investigated by the 17th Judicial District Critical Incident Response Team, a multi-agency team designed to provide an independent, objective review of critical incidents. After the investigation was completed, the findings were submitted to the District Attorney’s Office for review. In July 2025, the District Attorney announced that no criminal charges would be filed against the officers involved.