In the early hours of December 2, 2022, a violent encounter in Pueblo, Colorado, claimed the life of 32-year-old Alonzo Valdez and left a woman critically injured. The events of that night began to unfold at a local bar where Valdez was present with two other men and a woman. Security footage from the establishment captured an altercation that occurred after a Chevrolet Cruz arrived outside.
Valdez was seen approaching the vehicle, leaning in, and then physically engaging with the driver, pulling him out of the car before the fight was broken up and Valdez went back inside.
Later that same night, the conflict tragically escalated at a residence on East 6th Street. Police received a frantic 911 call from the 10-year-old son of the female victim, stating his mother had been shot. Upon arrival, officers discovered Valdez deceased in the backyard from a single gunshot wound to the face. Inside the home, they found the woman, who had been shot six times, conscious but in critical condition. Before being transported to the hospital, she identified the shooter as Austin Aragon.
Investigations revealed that Aragon and another unidentified male had arrived at Valdez's home. An argument ensued between Aragon and Valdez, who was reportedly armed with what was later believed to be an airsoft gun. The female victim told police she had taken the gun from Valdez and hidden it. Shortly after, she witnessed Aragon pull out a handgun and shoot Valdez. In an attempt to protect Valdez and her children, she charged at Aragon and was subsequently shot multiple times.
Following the incident, the Pueblo Police Department publicly sought help in identifying persons of interest. In March 2023, Austin Aragon turned himself in to the authorities. He is being held on a $1 million bond for charges of 2nd-degree murder and attempt to commit 1st-degree murder. Police have indicated they are still seeking another male suspect who was present at the scene.
