Desireé Marie Terrazas, a 39-year-old woman from Denver, Colorado, was tragically killed on the evening of March 2, 2024. Her death, which was unexpected and deeply shocking to her family, occurred in the 2700 block of West Iliff Avenue. An autopsy later confirmed that she died from a gunshot wound, and the manner of death was ruled a homicide. The incident was determined to be related to domestic violence.
Born on August 10, 1984, in Denver, Desireé was the eldest of three children
and was raised in the city. After graduating from high school, she pursued a career in medical insurance coding. She was a mother to two sons, Damien and Isaac. Her family remembers her as a person who enjoyed spending time outdoors, gardening, and tending to her yard. They described her smile as bright and her giggle as unique, highlighting that she was happiest when spending time with her children.
In the investigation that followed her death, a suspect was identified and arrested. James Sanchez, 32, was subsequently charged in connection with the fatal shooting. On July 1, 2025, a jury found Sanchez guilty of first-degree murder, tampering with evidence, and violation of a protection order. Following the conviction, prosecutors stated that Sanchez faces a mandatory sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole. His sentencing was scheduled for September 2, 2025.
