In the early morning hours of October 24, 2020, 41-year-old Michael Atkinson was fatally shot in his Westminster, Colorado home. The incident unfolded when his ex-girlfriend arrived at his residence in the 5600 block of West 76th Avenue to retrieve her belongings. She believed he was not home at the time and was accompanied by a friend, Jessee Riepe, who waited outside.
Atkinson, however, returned unexpectedly while his ex-girlfriend was inside. A confrontation ensued between the two, during which he allegedly assaulted her. She managed to break free and sent a text message to Riepe for help. Riepe then entered the house, unaware that Atkinson had returned. Atkinson confronted Riepe, demanding that he leave and advancing toward him in an aggressive manner.
Riepe reported to police that Atkinson punched him in the eye, causing him to fear for his safety. As he backed away toward the front door with Atkinson following him, Riepe drew a. 45 caliber handgun and fired, striking Atkinson in the upper torso. Riepe immediately called 911 and attempted to provide first aid to Atkinson until authorities arrived.
When police reached the scene, they found Riepe administering aid to Atkinson. Despite these efforts, Atkinson was pronounced dead at St. Anthony's North Medical Center. Riepe expressed remorse upon learning of Atkinson's death. He was subsequently arrested and charged with second-degree murder. The case against him was scheduled for a court hearing in November 2020.
