by Child Custody Exchange Turns Deadly in Colorado
A tragic incident unfolded in Colorado on Sunday when a child custody exchange took a fatal turn. A man was shot and killed during a fight between two men at a gas station in unincorporated Elbert County, southeast of Denver.
According to the Elbert County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred around 3 p.m. when officers responded to reports of a fight and gunshots. The father, a 36-year-old man from Parker, Colorado, had gone to the gas station to exchange custody of his 4-year-old daughter with his ex-girlfriend. The identity of the father has not been disclosed.
Authorities revealed that the fatal shot was fired by the ex-girlfriend’s fiancé, identified as 26-year-old Jeffrey Church, after a physical altercation between the two men. Church was immediately arrested on first-degree murder charges and is currently being held at the detention facility of the sheriff’s office.
The first sheriff’s deputy to arrive at the scene managed to detain Church until additional deputies arrived. The deputy then performed life-saving measures on the father, but unfortunately, the efforts were in vain. The man was rushed to AdventHealth Parker, where he was pronounced dead.
The investigation into the incident is still ongoing, and no further details have been released at this time. The motive behind the fight and subsequent shooting remains unclear.
The location of the incident, Elbert County, is a rural area located southeast of Denver. Known for its picturesque landscapes and small communities, the county is predominantly residential, providing a peaceful backdrop for families. However, this tragic event has sent shockwaves through the community.
Jeffrey Church is scheduled to appear in court on February 20. The court hearing will shed more light on the circumstances surrounding the incident and provide the victim’s family with a chance to seek justice.
As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of a father who was simply trying to exchange custody of his child. This heartbreaking incident serves as a reminder of the need for peaceful resolutions and the importance of ensuring the safety of all involved in child custody exchanges.
