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DENVER (KDVR) A 17-year-old was shot and killed Thursday during a confrontation with Aurora police after officers said the teen allegedly planned to “shoot up” a business.
The Aurora Police Department Chief Todd Chamberlain said the initial report came in around 7:40 p.m. from the teen.
Chamberlain said the suspect told a dispatcher he planned to shoot up a business on the 200 block of South Havana Street. Chamberlain also said the teen told the dispatcher he had a weapon in his waistband.
An owner of a nearby business called Aurora dispatch and said he locked himself inside the business, and the owner felt there was “suspicious activity” happening outside.
Chamberlain said police arrived at the scene where the teen was on the side of the island and his hands were concealed. Police observed the teen who came away from the island and “began to walk towards officers.”
Police had shot “less lethal” foam projectiles, which did not impact the teen and “did not stop the aggressive behavior.” Chamberlain said officers told him to put “his hands up,” but the teen allegedly kept his hands inside his pants.
Police said in a press release later Thursday night that the suspect allegedly ran toward officers when one officer shot the teen. The suspect was rushed to the hospital, but later pronounced dead.
As of Thursday night, a firearm hadn’t been located.
The officer is on paid administrative leave, in line with agency policy. Meanwhile, the 18th Judicial Critical Incident Response Team is investigating the shooting, while Aurora police are conducting an administrative review of the incident.
Police said the investigations are active and ongoing, and anyone with any information should contact Metro Denver Crime Stoppers at 720-913-STOP (7867) or online. Tipsters can remain anonymous and still be eligible for up to a $2,000 reward.
Maddie Rhodes contributed to this report.