In a quiet Centennial neighborhood on April 4, 2016, the life of Dr. Kenneth Atkinson, a 65-year-old male, was tragically cut short in an act of selfless courage. Dr. Atkinson, a respected local physician, was at his home when he became aware of a violent domestic dispute unfolding at a neighbor's house. A woman, Elizabeth Lyons, had been shot by her husband and had fled across the street.
Without hesitation, Dr. Atkinson rushed to the aid of the wounded woman.
As he was kneeling to provide medical assistance and call 911, he was warned by another neighbor that the assailant was approaching them. The gunman, identified as Kevin Lyons, then opened fire on Dr. Atkinson, striking him in the leg. Though injured, Dr. Atkinson attempted to find cover behind a nearby vehicle.
Lyons pursued Dr. Atkinson and shot him again at close range before returning to his own property. Sheriff's deputies arrived at the scene shortly after and were able to take Kevin Lyons into custody. Dr. Atkinson was mortally wounded in the attack and died at the scene. Elizabeth Lyons and another neighbor who was also shot during the incident were hospitalized for their injuries but survived.
Kevin Lyons was arrested and faced multiple charges, including murder and attempted murder. In May 2017, he pleaded guilty to the murder of Dr. Kenneth Atkinson and the wounding of the two women. The following month, a judge sentenced him to life in prison plus 352 years, ensuring he would spend the remainder of his life incarcerated for the violent rampage that took the life of a man who was trying to help a neighbor in need.
