AURORA, Colo. — An armed homeowner who was fatally shot by an Aurora police officer was a veteran, family members said Tuesday.
Richard “Gary” Black, 73, was a veteran who served in the Vietnam War and was awarded a Purple Heart and Bronze Star during his time in the service.
According to the Aurora Police Department Black shot and killed an intruder inside the home at 10609 E. Montview Blvd. early Monday morning. Black was fatally shot by Aurora police afterward.
Authorities also found a juvenile inside the home. The child was taken to a hospital for serious but nonlife-threatening injuries caused by the deceased intruder, police said.
The name of the intruder has not been released.
The family said they will release a statement later Tuesday.