Pueblo Police Officer Shoots Armed Domestic Disturbance Suspect After He Flees With Infant
Description: A Pueblo police officer fatally shot a domestic disturbance suspect Sept. 5 after police say he fled with an infant and repeatedly reached into a backpack...
Published: 09/06/2026
Officer Involved Shooting
On September 5, 2026, at approximately 7:48 p.m., Pueblo Police Department officers were flagged down regarding a reported domestic disturbance involving weapons in the 400 block of W. 9th Street. Responding officers were advised that the male suspect was armed with a handgun and was threatening to use it against the female inside the residence, as well as making additional threats to shoot anyone who approached.
Officers also confirmed that an active restraining order was in place protecting the female and their infant child. Additional units were requested, and a perimeter was established around the block to conduct surveillance and develop an operational plan.
The suspect exited the residence and fled from officers while carrying the infant (kidnapping). He stopped in a parking lot at W. 10th Street and Grand Avenue, where he began reaching into his backpack. Officers issued multiple commands for him to place the infant down and stop reaching into the backpack. The suspect placed the infant in a stroller located nearby but continued reaching into his backpack.
A police officer then discharged their department issued firearm, striking the suspect. Officers immediately checked the welfare of the infant and began life-saving measures on the suspect. He was transported to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased.
The female was transported to the hospital but discharged with no serious injuries. There were no reported injuries to the infant.
The Pueblo County Coroner will release the identity of the deceased after proper notifications have been made.
The 10th Judicial District CIRT (Critical Incident Response Team) has been activated and will conduct the investigation. Involved officers have been placed on administrative leave per department policy.
No additional information will be released at this time.
The information contained in this press release is based on preliminary information available at the time of its drafting. The Pueblo Police Department’s understanding of this incident may change as additional evidence is collected, analyzed, and reviewed. The purpose of this press release is to provide timely information to the public. In consideration of the foregoing, please be advised that any statements expressed herein are subject to change at any time.
Update from Pueblo County Coroner:
The Pueblo County Coroner has identified the decedent from the officer-involved shooting on September 5th, 2026, near West 10th Street and Grand Avenue. The decedent was Elijah Fowlkes, a 27-year-old male.
The decedent’s next of kin have been notified.
The case remains under active investigation by the 10th Judicial District CIRT (Critical Incident Response Team) and the Pueblo County Coroner’s Office. No further details are available at this time.
Dr. Gregory Grahek, D-ABMDI
PUEBLO COUNTY CORONER
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