Denver Police Arrest Suspect in 3800 Block W. Arizona Avenue Homicide

Denver Police Arrest Suspect in 3800 Block W. Arizona Avenue Homicide

Published on July 21, 2026

Denver - Tuesday, July 21, 2026 - The Denver Police Department announces the arrest of Fernando Sebastian Chavez (DOB: 7/16/2002) for Investigation of First Degree Murder related to the fatal shooting of 34-year-old James Ruiz.

At approximately 9:11 p.m. on July 13, 2026, Denver 911 received a report of a shooting in the 3800 Block of W. Arizona Avenue. Responding officers located James Ruiz, who had suffered a gunshot wound and was pronounced deceased on-scene. Through the investigation, Denver Police Homicide Unit detectives learned Mr. Ruiz was attempting to break up a fight involving his girlfriend and another woman when Fernando Sebastian Chavez allegedly shot and killed Mr. Ruiz. Fernando Sebastian Chavez fled the scene immediately after the shooting and officers arrested him on the night of July 20, 2026.

Per standard procedure, the Denver District Attorney's Office will make the final determination regarding charges.

The Denver Police Department is committed to sharing timely and accurate information with the public. However, please note, this press release is based on preliminary information and details are subject to change if additional evidence is collected and analyzed throughout the investigation. A suspect is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

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