WESTMINSTER, Colo. – A man who tried to hit a Westminster Police officer with a car as he attempted to escape from law enforcement is dead and another is in custody, a spokesperson with the police department said Thursday afternoon.
Police officers were responding to a call of a theft in progress that was taking place in the 11800 block of Sheridan Blvd. at around 2:10 p.m. Officers were told that a male suspect threatened loss prevention personnel with a knife.
When officers got to the scene, they learned a man fled the scene on foot and another left in a car. Officers were able to find the suspect in the car as it was leaving the area, according to Westminster Police Department spokesperson Kate Kazell.
That suspect reportedly drove off and a chase ensued. During the chase, officers tried several times to disable the car, Kazell said, before the driver tried to hit an officer who was out of his patrol car. The officer then fired his gun and struck the suspect.
He was taken to a hospital where he was later pronounced dead. The second suspect who tried to escape on foot was taken into custody by other officers in the area.
The officer-involved in the incident was not injured, Kazell said.
Police do not believe there is any danger to the public at this point. The 17th Judicial District Critical Incident Team will be investigating the incident, said Kazell.
The 120th Avenue frontage road will be closed between Chase St. and Sheridan Blvd. as officers gather evidence