BROOMFIELD, CO – Authorities have detained a suspect following a reported active shooting incident at a local apartment complex, according to the Broomfield Police Department. On Thursday morning, law enforcement responded to a disturbance at Arista Flats apartments, located to the east of Wadsworth Parkway near the former 1stBank Center.
Upon arrival, officers heard threats and subsequent gunfire from the apartment in question. Rachel Haslett, a Broomfield police spokesperson, stated that the suspect was firing both at nearby units and into the parking lot. The number of shots fired remains unconfirmed as it happened sporadically.
The suspect also made threats towards the police officers at the scene, raising the risk level for both the officers and nearby residents.
Consequently, authorities labeled the scenario as an “active shooter” situation and issued a reverse emergency notification to hunker down. Some locals reported not receiving the alert, highlighting the need for a better way to enroll citizens.
In response to the escalating situation, additional law enforcement agencies were called to assist, including North Metro Fire Rescue, Boulder County Sheriff’s Office, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Westminster police, SWAT, and crisis negotiators.
The standoff lasted roughly four hours, ending when authorities forcibly entered the unit and arrested the male suspect around 10 a.m. Both the suspect and a female victim were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment of undisclosed injuries. The relationship between the two individuals remains unknown at this time.
During a subsequent press conference, Haslett revealed that one of the responding Broomfield PD officers discharged their weapon during the operation, although no injuries were sustained. Haslett also noted that the police presence in the area will remain elevated for several hours while investigations are underway.
According to the information provided, the suspect’s gunfire damaged multiple units, various buildings, and cars. Police will reach out to those affected in the area for further instructions.