The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating a series of troubling incidents involving someone throwing rocks at moving vehicles in July and August. While thankfully no injuries have been reported, all the vehicles targeted have sustained damage as a result of these dangerous acts.
According to a news release from the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, the incidents took place along several different avenues in the area, including West Quincy Avenue, West Belleview Avenue, West Peakview Avenue, West Bowles Avenue, and West Coalmine Avenue. The suspect vehicle has been described as a smaller, four-door sedan, and the rocks were thrown late at night or early in the morning between July 19 and August.
In one particularly alarming instance, a rock hit the hood of a car, bounced into the windshield, and shattered it, causing significant damage. Other vehicles experienced damage to their hoods, grills, and sides as well. The person responsible for these acts was reportedly in a vehicle traveling in the opposite direction at the time of the incidents.
In response to these incidents, the Sheriff’s Office has increased patrols in the area in an effort to locate the suspect. This proactive measure is aimed at preventing further incidents and ensuring the safety of drivers in the community.
Unfortunately, this is not the first time such incidents have occurred in the area. Last year, a similar spree of rock-throwing attacks on suburban Denver drivers resulted in the tragic death of 20-year-old Alexa Bartell. Bartell was killed in April 2023 when a rock crashed through her windshield as she was driving northbound on Indiana Street in unincorporated Jefferson County.
Three individuals, Joseph Koenig, Zachary Kwak, and Nicholas Karol-Chik, were arrested and accused of throwing landscaping rocks at multiple vehicles that evening, including the rock that led to Bartell’s death. Kwak and Karol-Chik have since pleaded guilty to various charges, while Koenig’s trial has been delayed as his defense seeks a mental health evaluation.
The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department is urging anyone who has experienced a similar rock-throwing incident to their vehicle to come forward and report the event. This information can be shared by calling 303-271-0211. Additionally, anyone with information about the individuals responsible for these acts is encouraged to contact the sheriff’s office tip line at 303-271-5612.
As the investigation into these incidents continues, it is crucial for community members to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity they may observe. By working together, we can help ensure the safety and well-being of all residents in Jefferson County. Stay informed by signing up to receive crime news updates directly to your inbox each day.