In the summer of 2024, the city of Denver was shaken by a senseless act of violence that claimed the life of a beloved community member. William Todd Kidd, a 49-year-old man known for his protective nature, was fatally shot on July 10th while working as a bouncer at Federales, a popular restaurant in the RiNo district. Two days later, on July 12th, he succumbed to his injuries in the hospital.
The incident unfolded when Kidd intervened in a disturbance that had erupted outside the
restaurant. In an act of selfless courage, he stepped in to protect his coworkers and patrons. It was during this intervention that he was shot. The suspect, a 14-year-old male named Steven Marquez, fled the scene, sparking a manhunt that crossed state lines.
Following an intensive investigation by the Denver Police Fugitive Unit, Marquez was located and apprehended in Casper, Wyoming, on July 16th. He was subsequently extradited back to Denver to face charges for the murder of William Todd Kidd. The brazen nature of the crime and the young age of the alleged perpetrator sent ripples of shock and grief through the community.
Friends and family remembered Kidd, a former University of Denver hockey player, as a 'gentle giant' who died a hero. His death was met with an outpouring of support and tributes, with many highlighting his kind heart and unwavering loyalty. Celebrations of his life drew hundreds of people, a testament to the positive impact he had on those who knew him. The tragic loss of William Todd Kidd serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of gun violence and the profound loss it inflicts upon a community.
