In the crisp autumn air of October 5, 2020, a call regarding a shooting broke the morning calm in Colorado Springs, Colorado. At approximately 11:10 A.M., officers from the Colorado Springs Police Department were dispatched to the 4600 block of Rusina Road, where they discovered the body of a man who had sustained a fatal gunshot wound. The deceased was later identified as 42-year-old Richard Ricky John Melgoza, a male resident of Colorado Springs.
His death marked the 30th homicide investigation in the city that year.
The investigation into Richard Melgoza's death was swiftly undertaken by the Violent Crimes Homicide/Assault Unit of the Colorado Springs Police Department. Their efforts quickly led to the identification of a suspect. Detectives secured an arrest warrant for 28-year-old Steven Walters, who was subsequently taken into custody on October 6, 2020. Walters was booked into the El Paso County Jail and faced the charge of first-degree murder in connection with Melgoza's death.
Richard, known to friends and family as Ricky, was remembered as a man full of energy who could light up a room with his presence. He had a contagious smile and laugh and a passion for fast cars and loud music. Described as a great friend who loved helping people, he was known for his spontaneous and adventurous spirit. He is survived by his mother, fiancée, three children, and a granddaughter.
