Gunfire shattered the stillness of the early morning in Chaparral Village, an incident that has left a community shaken and grieving. At approximately 3:45 a.m. on Thursday, August 28, 2025, the quiet was broken by the sound of gunshots in the mobile home park located at East 88th Avenue and Welby Road.
The rapid succession of gunfire indicated a violent altercation that unfolded in the darkness, with residents waking to the chaos and chaos quickly escalating into tragedy.
Emergency responders arrived swiftly to the scene, finding 27-year-old Dezmond Johnathan Romero critically wounded. Despite immediate medical efforts, Romero's injuries were too severe, and he succumbed to his wounds at the scene.
His death marked a devastating loss for his family, friends, and the neighborhood. Romero was known in the community as a young man with a promising future, and the violence that claimed his life has left many grappling with grief and disbelief.
The investigation quickly gained momentum as law enforcement agencies worked to piece together the events leading to the shooting. Witnesses in the area reported hearing multiple gunshots and seeing a suspicious individual fleeing the scene.
Authorities launched a thorough investigation, collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses in hopes of understanding what prompted the deadly confrontation.
Within hours, investigators identified a suspect: 37-year-old Alex Anthony Martinez. He was located at his workplace in Commerce City around 3:15 p.m. later that day. The arrest was made without incident, and Martinez was taken into custody by law enforcement officials.
The suspect now faces serious charges, including first-degree murder and tampering with evidence, indicating that authorities believe he deliberately took actions to cover up or obstruct justice related to the shooting.
Martinez's first court appearance is scheduled for September 3, where prosecutors will formally present their case. The community awaits further updates as the legal process unfolds.
Meanwhile, residents are left to grapple with questions about why such violence erupted and what can be done to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The incident has reignited discussions about safety, gun violence, and community support systems in Chaparral Village.
Deep condolences are extended to Romero's loved ones, who are mourning the loss of a young man taken far too soon. The community, too, mourns the loss of a neighbor and friend, united in grief and seeking justice.
As investigators continue their work, they hope to uncover the full story behind the tragic event and bring closure to those affected. The senseless violence serves as a stark reminder of the importance of community efforts to address underlying issues and promote peace in neighborhoods like Chaparral Village.
