Crime
1 killed after shooting near Atlas Prep School in south Colorado Springs over field
UPDATE: In a Facebook post, Atlas Schools CEO Brittney Stroh addressed a recent incident that occurred on the school’s grounds.
She explained that the school rents its sports facilities to external groups and that a tragic fight broke out during one of these games.
Stroh clarified that neither Atlas nor its students were involved and expressed condolences to the affected individuals.
She also stated that the Colorado Springs Police Department is investigating the incident and that Atlas would share updates as appropriate.
Local businesses in southeast Colorado Springs are reporting a significant police presence near Atlas High School.
Employees at South Colorado Springs Nissan and Specialty Sports and Supply have observed numerous law enforcement officers in the area on Saturday afternoon.
Although the specific nature of the incident remains unclear, the Colorado Springs Police Department has confirmed that they responded to a report of a possible shooting.
Parents reported that a football game was taking place when the police arrived. According to the police, the initial call was regarding a shooting.
Tammy Whaley told Channel2 NOW, “My son was about 30 feet away, getting ready to start his football game, when he and his team heard and saw what happened. Our coach was performing CPR, and the shooter escaped.”
Atlas Preparatory School reported a deadly fight that took place on Saturday between members of an athletic club using the school’s field.
However, further details are currently limited.
As the investigation unfolds, updates will be provided regarding the situation.
Crime
Armed Man with Reported Mental Health Concerns Arrested inside U.S. Capitol
Police officer suspended after failing to stop an armed man entering the U.S. Capitol.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Tuesday, January 21, the United States Capitol Police (USCP) responded to a security alert regarding a man reportedly experiencing mental health issues and suicidal thoughts, who was believed to be armed and in the vicinity of the Capitol.
At approximately 1:15 p.m., USCP officers located the suspect’s vehicle on First Street near East Capitol Street, NE.
A subsequent search of the area determined that the individual had recently entered the Capitol Visitor Center (CVC) and participated in a Capitol tour.
At around 2:15 p.m., officers observed the man exiting the Library of Congress following the tour and walking toward his vehicle.
He was intercepted, searched, and taken into custody. A concealed 9mm handgun was discovered in his waistband during the search.
The suspect, identified as 27-year-old James A. Faber of Massachusetts, was arrested and charged with multiple offenses, including:
- Unlawful Activities
- Carrying a Pistol Without a License
- Possession of an Unregistered Firearm
- Unlawful Possession of Ammunition
- Resisting Arrest
The case is currently under review by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Following a review of security footage, it was determined that Faber entered the Capitol Visitor Center through the south checkpoint. Although the magnetometer alarm was triggered, an officer conducted a secondary hand search and subsequently allowed him entry into the building.
As a result of this lapse, the officer involved has been placed on administrative suspension pending an internal investigation by the USCP’s Office of Professional Responsibility to assess their performance in handling the security screening.
Authorities have stated that, at this time, there is no indication that Faber intended to harm members of Congress or any individuals within the Capitol complex.
In response to the incident, the USCP has ordered a comprehensive review of security protocols and mandated refresher training for all personnel involved in visitor screening to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
“The United States Capitol Police demands the highest standards in security screening procedures to ensure the safety of all individuals within the Capitol complex. A thorough review is already underway to reinforce our protocols and training,” the agency stated.
Thankfully, no injuries were reported in connection with this incident.