In the crisp autumn air of a Saturday afternoon in Colorado Springs, the cheers and excitement of a youth football game were abruptly shattered by a senseless act of violence that claimed the life of 29-year-old Donte Maurice Rice. On October 5, 2024, in the parking lot of Atlas Preparatory Charter School, a heated argument escalated into a fatal shooting, leaving a family and a community in mourning.
Witnesses reported seeing Rice engaged in a dispute with another man.
The altercation reportedly turned physical, with accounts suggesting that Rice may have thrown a punch. In the moments that followed, the other individual, later identified as 31-year-old Antivius Lamont Crowder, is alleged to have pulled out a gun and shot Rice. The sound of gunfire sent waves of panic through the crowd of families and young athletes who had gathered for the game, though the incident itself was reportedly unrelated to the sporting event.
First responders arrived to find Donte Maurice Rice with fatal injuries. Despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene. The shooter had fled, prompting an immediate investigation by the Colorado Springs Police Department. Their inquiries led them to identify Crowder as the primary suspect. Investigators learned that Crowder, who allegedly went by the name 'Ace' or 'A.C.' and was believed to have gang affiliations, had a criminal history that included convictions for money laundering, burglary, and theft. Surveillance footage from the area reportedly captured Crowder making 'agitated gestures' just minutes before the deadly confrontation.
Following a thorough investigation, the Colorado Springs Police Department's Violent Offender Fugitive Task Force, along with the Tactical Enforcement Unit, located and arrested Antivius Crowder. He was taken into custody and charged with first-degree murder in connection with the death of Donte Maurice Rice, bringing a measure of resolution to a community shaken by the sudden and tragic loss of life in a place meant for youthful recreation.
