Police have released body camera footage related to a fatal officer-involved shooting that occurred Wednesday in Wheat Ridge, Colorado. Authorities say the officer involved acted within department policy after the suspect, identified by family as Duane Butts, allegedly pointed a gun at the officer during a foot pursuit.
The incident, which happened near Youngfield Street and West 32nd Avenue, is now under investigation by the District Attorney’s Critical Incident Response Team.
What Happened
According to the Wheat Ridge Police Department (WRPD), an officer was on patrol near Youngfield Street and W. 32nd Avenue when he recognized a man with an active felony warrant. Police later confirmed the man was Duane Butts.
Authorities said that when the officer pulled up behind him, Butts ran west beneath the I-70 overpass. The officer pursued him on foot. Body camera footage shows the officer initially drawing a stun gun while chasing Butts. After Butts fell near the base of the overpass, the officer switched from the stun gun to his firearm.
Police stated that Butts then pointed a gun at the officer. Moments later, the officer fired multiple shots. The video shows Butts turning toward the officer with an object in his hand before shots were fired. Butts was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Who Was Duane Butts?
Family members identified the man killed in the shooting as Duane Butts. Loved ones acknowledged that he struggled with addiction but emphasized that he had never harmed anyone.
In a social media post, Butts’ sister described him as a person facing personal challenges and urged the public to approach the body camera footage with empathy and care, noting the emotional toll the incident has taken on their family.
Body Camera Footage and Investigation Details
The Wheat Ridge Police Department released the body camera footage after completing an internal review. On Friday, WRPD announced that the investigation concluded the officer acted in accordance with department policy.
Because the case involves a fatal officer-involved shooting, it has been turned over to the District Attorney’s Critical Incident Response Team for an independent investigation. Authorities noted that this process is standard procedure and remains ongoing.
Public and Social Media Reactions
The release of the footage has prompted strong reactions across the community and on social media. Some residents have expressed concern over police use of force, while others have focused on the officer’s split-second decision-making during a rapidly unfolding situation.
In her post, Butts’ sister wrote that watching the video was “incredibly difficult” and described Duane as being in a state of panic and fear throughout the encounter. She urged viewers to remember that the footage represents “the last moments of someone we loved profoundly.”
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Official Statements or What Happens Next
The Wheat Ridge Police Department said it has offered support resources to the Butts family through Victim Outreach Incorporated. Police officials also stated they are cooperating fully with the District Attorney’s Critical Incident Response Team as the external investigation continues.
No further details have been released at this time, and authorities said additional updates may be provided once the independent review is complete.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
