- The shooting happened at a home in the 700 block of Marine Street.
- Perez is from Thornton and is not a UC student, according to Boulder police. His photo is not being released as the investigation continues.
What we’re looking at: Although additional charges are possible for others involved, detectives say Perez was the only shooter.
Catch up quickly: Officers responded to reports of shots fired around 11:28 p.m. Saturday and found two 19-year-old men suffering from gunshot wounds.
- Both were taken to hospital. One died early Sunday, while the other remains in critical condition.
- Police had responded to a large party at the same house earlier in the night.
Driving the news: Police said Perez opened fire after a group that included him was kicked out of a Halloween party, according to an arrest affidavit released Monday.
- Perez allegedly forced his way inside the home, starting a fight near the front door.
- A witness told investigators he put Perez in a headlock to break up the fight. Perez fired approximately three shots, hitting one person in the neck and another in the leg.
- The witness said Perez appeared to be shooting into the crowd rather than targeting anyone in particular.
The police said Witness accounts, party images and tips helped investigators identify Perez.
In figures: The shooting marked Boulder’s first homicide of 2026, according to Boulder Police Chief Steve Redfearn.
What they say: “I am incredibly proud of our detectives and officers who have worked tirelessly since Saturday evening to find and arrest this suspect,” Redfearn said in a statement.
- “Everyone in our community deserves to feel safe and while I hope this arrest restores some safety, I know it will never bring back this young man’s life or erase all of the trauma the victims suffered.”
Student Resources: CU Boulder has activated support services for students affected by the shooting.
- Students who have experienced or witnessed violence can contact the university’s Office of Victim Assistance at 303-492-8855 for free, confidential support and trauma counseling. Telephone support is available 24/7.
- Students can also contact Counseling and Psychiatry Services at 303-492-2277 for mental health support.
Editor’s note: This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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