Colorado deputy takes out armed man during ‘active shooter’ call at family entertainment center

A tragic and chaotic incident unfolded on Saturday night in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, during what was supposed to be a fun and family-friendly evening at the Main Event entertainment center. The popular venue, which hosts bowling, birthday parties, and other events, became the scene of a deadly shooting that left one man dead and a woman injured. The events began just before midnight, when an “active shooter” call was made to authorities, prompting a rapid response from the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office.

The first deputy to arrive at the scene encountered a gun-wielding man in the parking lot outside the Main Event. According to the sheriff’s office, the man refused to comply with the deputy’s orders to drop his weapon. Instead, he turned toward the deputy, who then fired, striking and killing the man. Despite life-saving measures being performed by deputies, the man was pronounced dead at the scene. As the situation outside unfolded, deputies soon learned that another shooting had occurred inside the business, involving two women.

Inside the Main Event, patrons were enjoying a bustling evening when the sound of gunfire rang out, sending shockwaves of fear through the crowd. Sheriff Darren Weekly described the scene as “packed” with many people still present when the shots were fired. Multiple rounds were fired inside the business, and a female victim was found with gunshot wounds to her chest and foot. She was quickly rushed to a local hospital, where she is expected to survive. The female shooter responsible for her injuries was taken into custody by authorities.

As investigators worked to piece together the events of the night, they began to uncover a connection between the man killed in the parking lot and the shooting that occurred inside the Main Event. While no further details about the male suspect or the female shooter were immediately released, authorities confirmed that they believe the two incidents are linked. Detectives have been interviewing several witnesses as the investigation continues to unfold.

The shootings have left the community in shock, as the Main Event is a beloved destination for families and social gatherings. The venue’s lively atmosphere and reputation as a safe space for fun and celebration make the violence that erupted there all the more devastating. Sheriff Darren Weekly, who spoke to reporters at the scene, underscored the gravity of the situation, emphasizing the danger posed by the active shooter and the rapid response required to protect the public.

As the investigation remains ongoing, the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information to come forward. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of violence and the importance of swift action by law enforcement to protect public safety. The shootings at the Main Event have left a lasting impact on the community, raising questions about how such tragedies can occur in spaces meant for joy and connection. For now, the focus remains on supporting the victims, their families, and the witnesses who endured the harrowing events of that night.