FRUITA, CO — An armed suspect remains at large Sunday night following an hours-long standoff that prompted a massive multi-agency police presence in a Fruita neighborhood. Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant as the search continues.
At 10:00 p.m., the SWAT Team cleared a residence in the 600 block of Columbine Avenue. However, law enforcement officials confirmed the suspect was not located inside the home.
Police are actively working to locate the suspect and have released the following description to the public:
- Race/Gender: White male
- Age: Mid-60s
- Clothing: Grey shirt, grey shorts, and blue and grey Skechers shoes
- Physical Features: Has facial hair
Authorities warn that the suspect is considered armed and dangerous. If spotted, residents should not approach him. Immediately move away to a safe location and dial 9-1-1.
The incident began earlier in the evening when the Fruita Police Department, alongside the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office and the Grand Junction Police Department, responded to reports of an armed male near the intersection of East Columbine Avenue and North Ash Street.
By 6:30 p.m., the situation had escalated into an active response centered around a home in the 600 block of Columbine Avenue. Authorities established a perimeter and repeatedly urged residents to avoid the area while officers attempted to make contact with the barricaded individual.
Despite the extensive perimeter and the deployment of the SWAT Team, the suspect managed to evade capture prior to the home being completely cleared at 10:00 p.m.
Law enforcement agencies are continuing their active search of the surrounding areas. Further information will be released by authorities as the investigation develops.
This incident is related to a previous article: Shooting, E Columbine Ave & N Maple St