(COLORADO SPRINGS) — The identity of a man killed in an officer-involved shooting on the north side of Colorado Springs on Saturday, Feb. 15 has been released by the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office (EPSO).
The shooting happened around 5 p.m. on Feb. 15, after a 911 call was received concerning a family disturbance involving a gun in the 3100 block of Illinois Avenue, just north of East Fillmore Street.
The Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD) originally responded, and before officers arrived, two people inside the home were able to get out. The armed suspect remained inside the home with one other family member. The involved suspect and victims were all identified as being part of the same family, CSPD said.
Due to concerns for the person still inside the home, officers began safety planning, and during that time, CSPD said officers came into contact with the suspect. He allegedly did not follow officer commands to drop his weapon, and instead raised it at officers. Two officers fired at least one round each, hitting the suspect. The suspect was given medical aid but was declared dead on scene.
On Wednesday, Feb. 19, the suspect was identified as 45-year-old Derrick Wardle. His official cause and manner of death will be determined by the El Paso County Coroner’s Office.
No bystanders or officers were injured in the shooting, including the family members involved. The involved CSPD officers have been placed on administrative leave per department policy. EPSO is the lead investigative agency, and it will send its findings to the 4th Judicial District Attorney’s Office once complete for review of the officers’ use of force.
