Derrick Wardle Obituary, Death; – The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office (EPSO) has released the identity of a man who was fatally shot during an officer-involved incident on the north side of Colorado Springs on Saturday, February 15.
The incident occurred at approximately 5 p.m. following a 911 call reporting a family disturbance involving a firearm in the 3100 block of Illinois Avenue, situated just north of East Fillmore Street. The Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD) was the initial responding agency, and prior to their arrival, two individuals managed to exit the residence. However, the armed suspect remained inside with another family member. According to CSPD, both the suspect and the victims were members of the same family.
In light of the potential danger to the individual still inside the residence, officers initiated a safety plan. During this process, CSPD reported that officers encountered the suspect, who allegedly failed to comply with commands to lower his weapon and instead aimed it at the officers. In response, two officers discharged their firearms, each firing at least one round and striking the suspect. Despite receiving medical assistance, the suspect was pronounced dead at the scene.
On Wednesday, February 19, the suspect was identified as 45-year-old Derrick Wardle. The El Paso County Coroner’s Office will determine the official cause and manner of death.
Fortunately, no bystanders or officers sustained injuries during the incident, including the family members involved. The officers from CSPD who were involved in the shooting have been placed on administrative leave in accordance with departmental policy. EPSO is leading the investigation and will forward its findings to the 4th Judicial District Attorney’s Office for a review of the officers’ use of force once the investigation is concluded.
