On Thursday, June 4, 2026, at approximately 10:50 PM, multiple calls were received by the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Regional Communications Center regarding a disturbance at the Solace Apartments located in the 5990 block of Prosperity Point in the Cimarron Hills area of unincorporated El Paso County.
Reporting parties stated they heard loud noises and a gunshot and believed three individuals were involved: two adult males and one adult female.
El Paso County Sheriff’s Office patrol deputies arrived on scene and determined the suspect, identified as 21-year-old Joseph Brown Francis, was at the property to collect personal belongings. However, he became irate and began throwing rocks at one of the victims’ vehicles.
The victims stated they attempted to de-escalate the situation; however, Brown Francis brandished a firearm and fired at least one round into the area. After firing the weapon, he fled the scene in his vehicle. No one was injured during the incident.
While deputies were on scene collecting evidence and witness statements, Brown Francis returned and was taken into custody. A firearm was located in his vehicle.
Joseph Brown Francis was booked into the El Paso County Jail on the following charges:
- Harassment
- Felony Menacing
- Reckless Endangerment
He was later released on a $3,000 bond, the standard bond amount set by the state of Colorado for the associated charges.