FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – February 20, 2025
Adams County, Colo. (February 20, 2025): The Adams County SWAT Team, the Brighton Police Department, and other specialized members of area task forces responded to 20400 E. 160th Ave. on February 20, 2025, at approximately 8 a.m. to serve a search warrant for the Colorado Metropolitan Auto Theft Task Force (CMATT).
Upon initiating contact on the property, the situation quickly turned into a standoff, and an adult female barricaded herself and began threatening the law enforcement personnel on the scene. The female also claimed to have several hostages with her. The SWAT team began crisis negotiations with the female, but she was uncooperative as SWAT attempted several different modes of communication with her. During the hours of negotiations, the other people with her eventually exited and were taken to a safe location. At approximately 11:30 a.m., the SWAT team approached and attempted to breach the wall where the woman was, and as they did, she began to shoot at the deputies. Several deputies returned with gunfire as they attempted to protect themselves and move themselves out of the path of gunfire.
Three deputies were struck during the incident and received non-life-threatening injuries. All three deputies were treated for their injuries and later released from medical care.
The initial investigation revealed a deceased body in the area where there was a fire. The identification and cause of death are pending investigation by the Adams County Coroner’s Office.
The 17th Judicial District Critical Incident Response Team is currently investigating the incident.
The deputies involved in the shooting have been placed on administrative leave, which is standard procedure. After the investigation is completed, any changes to their status will be determined.
We thank our partners, the Brighton Police Department and the Brighton Fire Department, for their assistance during this incident.
Contact: Sgt. Adam Sherman
Phone: 303-655-3223
Email: asherman@adcogov.org