COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — A state parole officer was killed and another was injured after they were struck by a driver in Colorado Springs Thursday afternoon.
Officers were dispatched to the intersection of West Bijou Street and North Spruce Street around 3:45 p.m. Thursday for reports of a hit-and-run crash involving pedestrians. The two pedestrians were state parole officers, according to the Colorado Springs Police Department.
Both officers were taken to the hospital. One of the officers, who has not been identified, later succumbed to their injuries.
A Blue Alert was issued for the driver, identified as Justin Andrew Kula, 41. A Blue Alert is used to alert the public regarding "imminent danger posed by a suspect(s) who has killed or seriously injured a peace officer," according to the Colorado Bureau of Investigation.
Kula was located and taken into custody, according to CSPD.
Joe Roybal, the El Paso County Sheriff, released this statement following the death of the Colorado state parole officer's death:
With a heavy heart, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office joins all of Colorado in mourning the fallen Colorado Division of Adult Parole Officer's tragic, senseless death. Our prayers are with the Officer’s family and with the second Officer who was injured during the incident, as well.
Members of law enforcement bravely run toward the danger and make unbelievable sacrifices so we can live in a safer world. As a law enforcement family, we mourn this loss and offer our prayers and unconditional support as they navigate through this unthinkable situation.
This is a developing story and will be updated.
