On Wednesday, November 4, 2026, the Colorado Springs Police Department’s (CSPD) Violent Offender Fugitive Task Force Unit (VOFTFU) was investigating the location of a wanted individual near the Aviator Apartments, located in the 1600 block of North Murray Boulevard.
The 27-year-old suspect, Davijo Velarde, had an active warrant related to a recent felony.
The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office (EPSO) Fugitive Impact Team (FIT) was requested to assist with the investigation, along with members of CSPD’s Tactical Enforcement Unit (TEU).
Shortly after 2 PM, officers followed the suspect’s vehicle into the parking lot of the Aviator Apartments. As officers and deputies approached the vehicle, they identified themselves as law enforcement and directed the occupants to exit.
A lethal force encounter occurred when Velarde fired at least one round at officers, striking the windshield of a police vehicle. CSPD officers and at least one EPSO deputy returned fire, striking the suspect.
Officers took the suspect into custody and immediately began providing medical aid. Paramedics responded to the scene and transported the suspect to a local hospital.
The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office is the lead investigative agency for the officer-involved shooting, with assistance from the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
Davijo Velarde is currently listed in stable condition and remains in custody at a local hospital. Following his release from the hospital, he will be booked into the El Paso County Jail.
The investigation remains ongoing. We will release additional information as it becomes available.
The officers and deputy involved in this incident have been placed on administrative leave per agency policy.