Denver Police Investigating the Death of a Man While in Police Custody

Denver Police Investigating the Death of a Man While in Police Custody

Published on July 16, 2026

Denver - Thursday, July 16, 2026 - The Denver Police Department has initiated its critical incident investigation protocol to investigate the death of a man while in police custody on Tuesday evening, July 14, 2026. The critical incident investigation protocol is standard practice for such incidents and involves investigators from the Colorado State Patrol, Colorado Bureau of Investigation, and Denver Police Major Crimes Division, and includes oversight by the Denver Office of the Independent Monitor.

The incident began with calls to Denver 911 at approximately 4:22 p.m. reporting a fight in the 2100 Block of East Colfax Avenue. One of the callers reported that the man, who was wearing only underwear, got into their vehicle and the caller believed the man was attempting to carjack them. One occupant of the vehicle fought with the man to get him out of their car. Evidence obtained thus far verifies the man was struck several times in the head and upper body before he was pulled out of the vehicle by the occupant. The man then walked away. Denver 911 received subsequent reports of the man entering a nearby business and causing a disturbance.

Denver Police officers arrived on-scene and approached the man inside the business. At the time of initial contact by officers, the man appeared to be breathing heavily and began yelling. Officers' actions included handcuffing and subduing the man who struggled against officers throughout the contact. The preliminary investigation has confirmed officers did not use less-lethal systems, such as a TASER or pepper spray, or strike the man during the contact.

During the contact, officers requested an EMS response and assisted with moving the man to a gurney because he was still struggling against officers and EMS personnel. There were no visible signs of injury. The man was transported to an area hospital where he was later pronounced deceased.

The Denver Office of the Medical Examiner will determine the cause and manner of death and release the identity of the decedent.

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