ADAMS COUNTY, Colo. (KDVR) — A Denver Sheriff’s deputy was shot and killed Monday in what investigators say was a suspected murder-suicide.
Latasha Betterly-Byrd was found dead from multiple gunshot wounds on Monday morning, according to the Adams County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies responded to the home in the 1300 block of West 67th Avenue, where they also found the body of a man with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.
According to a statement on behalf of Denver Sheriff Elias Diggins, Betterly-Byrd graduated from the training academy in November and was an “outstanding and promising new deputy” assigned to the Downtown Detention Center.
“This is a very difficult time for her immediate family and Department family as well. We ask that you keep everyone who cares for her in your thoughts and prayers,” the statement reads.
A friend said Betterly-Byrd had served in the U.S. Marine Corps. Neighbors say she had lived in a home with her husband and kids for about a year, saying two boys were home at the time and called for help, waiting outside for deputies to arrive.
Deputies were asked twice on Sunday evening to conduct welfare checks on the man who died, according to the Adams County Sheriff’s Office. In one instance, deputies went to the home but were not able to contact anyone. The second instance, about an hour later, was canceled after a relative was able to speak to the couple and found them to be OK.
On Monday afternoon, detectives continued to interview witnesses and neighbors and examine other evidence, according to the Adams County Sheriff’s Office.
Editor’s note: This story originally included an incorrect spelling of Betterly-Byrd’s name that was distributed by Denver Public Safety.