On December 8, 2021, at approximately 2:30 a.m., Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD) officers were dispatched to a Burglary in progress in the 1700 block of Herd Street.

CSPD officers located an adult male suspect, outside a home, who was armed with a weapon. During the encounter at least one CSPD officer fired at least one round at the suspect who was struck by at least one round, and died on scene despite lifesaving efforts. 

The suspect has been identified as Michael Pantoja, date of birth, June 4, 1976. The cause and manner of death will be determined by the El Paso County Coroner's Office.

No other community members, or officers were injured in this incident. One officer involved in this incident has been placed on administrative leave per CSPD’s policy.

In accordance with Colorado Revised Statute 16-2.5-301, the El Paso County Sheriff's Office is the lead investigative agency for this officer-involved shooting. This is an ongoing investigation and information will be released as appropriate. All updates, with the exception of naming the involved officer, will come from the El Paso County Sheriff's Office Public Information Office.