Colorado Springs Officer Fires on Fleeing Suspect Carrying Two Guns
Officer-Involved Shooting in Downtown Colorado Springs – July 5, 2025
Colorado Springs, Colorado – On Saturday, July 5, 2025, just after 1:30 AM, officers with the Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD) responded to a call for service regarding a reported disturbance in the 100 block of East Pikes Peak Avenue, in the heart of downtown Colorado Springs. The initial caller reported that an adult male was allegedly displaying a firearm in the vicinity of several nightclubs, which were in the process of closing at the time. The situation prompted concern among patrons and bystanders in the area, leading to the call to police.
As part of regular nighttime operations, officers had been monitoring downtown surveillance cameras due to the high volume of foot traffic and activity associated with the nightlife scene. Through this video monitoring, officers were able to identify an individual matching the suspect description provided by witnesses. They observed that the man appeared to be visibly armed with what looked like a firearm.
Uniformed officers were immediately dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, they attempted to safely contact the suspect. As officers approached, the man turned and fled on foot, heading away from law enforcement. While running, officers noted that the individual was reaching toward his waistband, a behavior often interpreted as potentially retrieving a weapon.
Due to the perceived threat and rapid unfolding of events, one officer discharged their firearm, striking the suspect. Officers moved quickly to take the man into custody and immediately began rendering emergency medical aid while awaiting medical personnel. Despite their efforts, the suspect succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The deceased was later identified as 26-year-old Alex Martinez-Sarmiento. Next of kin have been notified.
No officers or members of the public were injured during the incident.
As part of the subsequent on-scene investigation, officers recovered multiple firearms. A loaded Glock 17 pistol equipped with an illegal extended magazine was located in the right pant leg of the suspect. In addition, officers also recovered a second handgun, identified as a Glock 43 that was also loaded and had a defaced serial number, rendering it untraceable. Further investigation confirmed that the suspect had also been in possession of a rifle earlier in the evening, which was reportedly seen on his person by witnesses and confirmed via camera footage.
This incident is being actively investigated by the CSPD Violent Crimes Section in accordance with department protocols related to officer-involved shootings. Per standard procedure, the involved officer has been placed on administrative leave, pending the outcome of the investigation. The Fourth Judicial District Attorney’s Office will review the findings upon completion of the investigation to determine if the use of force was legally justified.
CSPD remains committed to transparency and accountability in all use-of-force incidents. Updates will be provided to the public as new verified information becomes available.
Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has relevant video footage is encouraged to contact the Colorado Springs Police Department at (719) 444-7000 or to remain anonymous by submitting a tip through Pikes Peak Crime Stoppers at (719) 634-STOP (7867).
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