Three people, including a police officer and a suspect, were killed in a shooting in a Denver suburb on Monday.
The story: The circumstances of the shooting were not immediately released. Police said the investigation is ongoing and that there is no threat to the public.
 Arvada Police Department Deputy Chief Ed Brady said at a news conference responded to a “suspicious” incident in Arvada’s Olde Town Square in the afternoon. About 15 minutes later, someone reported that shots were fired to 911.
“This is an active investigation with many moving pieces,” said Brady. “There is no threat to the public at this point. We’re not searching for anybody else.”
Police believe that the suspect killed the third person who they think was “a Samaritan.” The person was taken to the hospital where he died.
The slain officer was identified as Gordon Beesley by police. He worked at the department for 19 years and was a school resource officer, according to The Denver Post. The officer was working patrol during the school summer break, according to law enforcement.
The suspect was not identified and police said they will soon release the name of the other person that was killed.
Arvada Mayor Marc Williams said Monday was the saddest day for the police department.
“This is a very sad, dark day,” he told local station KUSA.
“Obviously it’s a horribly sad day for Arvada and for the region,” Williams said in a separate statement. “There’s been so much of this. You hate to see it happen anywhere, but to see it happen in your community really brings it home.”
Gov. Jared Polis issued a statement, saying: “My thoughts are with the family and friends of the officer who was tragically killed in the line of duty while swiftly and bravely responding to protect civilians in the area.”
The Denver Police Department said in a tweet: “Our deepest condolences to @ArvadaPolice and the family and friends of the officer who lost their life in the line of duty today. Our hearts are with you during this difficult time.”
Our deepest condolences to @ArvadaPolice and the family and friends of the officer who lost their life in the line of duty today. Our hearts are with you during this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/oi8Paqdh5E
— Denver Police Dept. (@DenverPolice) June 21, 2021
Dozens of Colorado police officers accompanied the officer’s body from the scene to the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office on Monday. There was also a crowd of over 100 people who gathered to pay respect to the slain officer.
