Following the Denver Nuggets' historic NBA championship victory against the Miami Heat, a shooting incident marred the celebrations, leaving ten people injured. The incident, which occurred early Tuesday morning in Denver, Colorado, is believed to be connected to drug activity, specifically involving fentanyl, according to police.
Denver Police Commander Matt Clark addressed the media on Tuesday, stating that two suspects are currently in custody and five weapons have been confiscated. The violence erupted as fans poured into the streets to commemorate the Nuggets' first-ever NBA title. The suspects have been identified as 22-year-old Ricardo Vasquez, who sustained a gunshot wound himself, and 33-year-old Raul Jones. Vasquez faces charges of weapon possession by a previous offender and controlled substance possession, while Jones is charged with weapon possession by a previous offender.
The shooting took place in the 2000 block of Market Street. Although the incident occurred amidst the championship festivities, law enforcement believes it was unrelated to the celebrations. Police suspect that five to six of the victims were bystanders not involved in the alleged drug transaction.
As of Tuesday afternoon, five individuals remained hospitalized in fair condition, with four having undergone immediate surgery, according to medical officials. A substantial quantity of fentanyl pills packaged in multiple baggies was discovered at the scene, further solidifying investigators' belief in a drug connection to the shooting. Commander Clark reported that at least 20 rounds were fired, injuring nine men and one woman.
Denver Police PIO Doug Schepman confirmed to Fox News that the shooting occurred around 12:30 a.m. MT. Preliminary information suggests the incident stemmed from an altercation involving several individuals, with multiple shots fired. It remains unclear whether the victims were specifically targeted or if multiple shooters were involved. The investigation is ongoing and complex.
While the shooting investigation continues, the city of Denver also grapples with other challenges, including rapid growth and escalating housing costs, recently electing Mike Johnston as their new mayor to address these issues.
