Foothills Mall Tragedy: Two Killed in Fort Collins Shooting, Juvenile Suspect in Custody as Community Grapples with Shock and Grief Amid Ongoing Police Investigation

Fort Collins, CO — A quiet Saturday afternoon in Fort Collins was shattered by a tragic act of violence when gunfire erupted outside the Foothills Mall, leaving two individuals dead and a juvenile male now in police custody. The fatal shooting has sent waves of grief and disbelief through the local community as law enforcement works diligently to uncover the motive and circumstances behind the violence.

The Incident

According to Fort Collins Police Services (FCPS), the shooting occurred around 5:00 p.m. on April 5, 2025, outside the Foothills Mall on a sidewalk between the parking lot and the mall entrance. Police were quickly dispatched to the scene following multiple 911 calls reporting the sound of gunshots and chaos in the vicinity.

When officers arrived, they found two individuals with life-threatening injuries. The victims were rushed to a nearby hospital, where both were later pronounced dead. Their identities have not yet been released pending notification of next of kin. The Larimer County Coroner’s Office will be conducting autopsies to determine the official causes of death.

Suspect in Custody

In a swift response, investigators identified a juvenile male suspect who is now in custody. Due to the suspect’s age, authorities have not released his name. Police have not confirmed whether the suspect knew the victims, but preliminary details suggest that the shooting may have stemmed from an ongoing dispute or be connected to potential gang-related activity.

Assistant Chief Frank Barrett, who oversees the Criminal Investigations Division, praised the dedication of the officers and detectives working the case. “Our team worked around the clock and was able to locate and arrest the suspect in a timely manner,” Barrett said. “Violent incidents like this are incredibly rare in Fort Collins, and we want to assure the public that we are doing everything we can to fully investigate and understand what led to this tragic event.”

Community on Edge

The incident has shaken residents of Fort Collins, a city not accustomed to such acts of public violence. The Foothills Mall was temporarily shut down, and a nearby movie theater also ceased operations while law enforcement secured the area and interviewed witnesses.

Many mallgoers were forced to shelter in place as officers swept through the premises to ensure there were no additional threats. Police remained at the scene into the night, gathering forensic evidence and piecing together the timeline of events.

As of now, authorities have emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to the public, but they are encouraging anyone who was in the area or who may have video footage to come forward.

Potential Gang Connection

Although police have not disclosed full details, they did note that early evidence points toward the possibility of gang involvement. However, officials declined to name specific groups, stating they do not want to provide publicity or elevate the influence of any criminal organizations.

“This is not just about holding one person accountable,” Barrett added. “It’s about preventing future violence. We are committed to dismantling any networks that endanger our community.”

Call for Witnesses

Detective Matt Dean is leading the investigation and has asked for the public’s help. Anyone with information is urged to contact him directly at 970-221-6580. Tips can also be provided anonymously through Larimer County Crime Stoppers at 970-221-6868.

Grief and Support

As families await answers and the victims’ names are withheld from the public, the broader community is rallying together in grief. Vigils are being discussed by local faith and community leaders, and support groups are organizing to provide resources for those affected by the trauma of the incident.

Local officials, including Mayor Jeni Arndt, expressed condolences and support. “Our hearts go out to the families affected by this unthinkable tragedy,” Arndt said in a brief statement. “Fort Collins is a strong, united community, and we will come together to support one another in this painful time.”

What Comes Next

The juvenile suspect remains in custody as investigators determine the appropriate charges. Given the severity of the incident and the deaths involved, prosecutors are expected to move quickly. The possibility of charging the suspect as an adult is being weighed, though that decision lies with the district attorney’s office.

This incident marks one of the most devastating acts of violence in Fort Collins in recent years, and the ripple effects will be felt for some time. As the community mourns the lives lost, questions remain about what led to the tragedy and how similar incidents can be prevented in the future.