Ealier today, May 11, 2021, the Colorado Springs Police Department held a press conference to give our community an update on the tragedy that took place on Sunday in the 2800 block of Preakness Way. Below is the information that was shared as well as a link to watch the press conference in full on the department's Facebook page.
- Information packet provided at the press conference (contains victim photos)
- Link to watch press conference
- Original press release
We want to again extend our deeplest sympathies and condolences to the families who have lost a loved one.
"My vow to you and your family is that we will continue our work to find you every answer you deserve." -Colorado Springs Police Department Chief Vince Niski
Information shared at the press conferece below:
Victims
Sandra Ibarra-Perez, 28-years-old
Jose Ibarra, 26-years-old
Mayra Ibarra De Perez, 33-years-old
Melvin Perez, 30-years-old
Jose Gutierrez, 21-years-old
Joana Cruz, 52-years-old
Suspect
Teodoro Macias, 28-years-old
Summary of Events
When the suspect arrived, there were 10 family members present at the residence. Seven adults, and three children ages 2, 5, and 11.
We have recovered evidence showing the suspects arrival to the scene, and know he arrived alone.
The suspect entered the residence, and shot all six victims in quick succession, in a methodical, direct and deliberate manner. The suspect then shot himself shortly thereafter.
One adult family member was able to escape the residence unharmed, as the shooting occurred.
The three children remained inside the residence during the occurrence, and were unharmed. The evidence supports the children were in close proximity to the shooting event, and to some degree witnessed what occurred.
Three additional family members, ages 16, 16, and 18 had left the residence shortly before the shooting, to retrieve an item from a neighbor. Unaware the shooting had occurred in their absence, they returned to the residence to discover what happened. They attempted to render aid, and gave shelter to the younger children.
The police response arrived shortly thereafter, with medical units staging nearby accordingly. The first arriving officers encountered the unharmed victims and additional family members inside the residence, and moved them to safety. They identified one victim that was alive but gravely wounded (Jose Gutierrez-Cruz) inside the residence. They received information from this victim that the suspect was still inside the residence. This information was accurate, but they were unaware the suspect was deceased. As a result, they made a tactical entry, unsure if the suspect was still active within the residence. They were able to shield the surviving victim while clearing the residence, and immediately began rendering medical assistance while continuing to clear and secure the residence.
As soon as the residence was secured, the lone surviving victim was transported to a medical facility for advanced lifesaving efforts. A secondary sweep was then conducted inside the residence with medical personnel, to check for signs of life with all the individuals who remained inside the residence.
Detectives assigned to the violent crimes section Homicide/Assault Unit were notified a short time later, and responded to assume responsibility for the ongoing investigation.
Motive
The suspect had been dating one of the victims (Sandra Ibarra) for approximately one year. The suspect was not invited to the family gathering and evidence supports that not receiving an invitation upset him.
The suspect had a history of controlling and jealous behavior toward the victim. This behavior in particular was most obvious with trying to isolate her from her family, and making efforts to prevent her from attending family events.
Suspect Criminal History
There are no prior reported domestic related occurrences between the two in local police databases. Further, police have not learned of any unreported physical altercations between the two, during the course of their one-year relationship.
Weapon Information
The firearm used was a Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm semi-automatic pistol. It was purchased from a dealer (local gun store) in 2014.
The suspect did not purchase the firearm during this transaction. Follow up is being conducted to locate and interview the individual who purchased the firearm originally. This is the only listed transaction for this firearm.
The ownership records for the life of the firearm, and how and when the suspect came to possess this firearm are unknown at this time. Investigative efforts will continue in an attempt to answer these questions.
Colorado Springs Police Department Statistics
2020 Homicide Statistics
- Total of 39 victims
- 9 of the 39 were domestic-violence related
2021 Homicide Statistics (through May 11, 2021)
- Total of 15 victims
- 8 of the 15 were domestic-violence related
Domestic Violence Statistics (as of March 2021)
- Persons Crime domestic violence rate is 37%
- 373 cases of aggravated assault
- 117 were domestic violence related
- DV's make up 32% of all aggravated assault cases
- 503 cases of simple assault
- 271 were domestic violence related
- DV's make up 44% of all simple assault cases
TESSA Information
TESSA will provide free and voluntary services to people who identify as experiencing domestic violence. TESSA will not refuse, withhold, or deny services to any current or prospective clients on the basis of income, gender identify, gender expression, religious beliefs, actual or perceived sexual orientation, immigration status, age, race, creed, ethnicity, color, national origin, marital status, spoken language, disability, or military status. TESSA will ensure that all current or prospective clients receive this information either verbally or posted in public areas.
Learn more on their website, or you can call their 24-hour safe line at 719-633-3819.