According to local sources the 37-year-old Joshua Cummings, who is being suspected of shooting a uniformed RTD contract security officer in Lower Downtown on the late Tuesday Night (31st Jan) has been described as a “radical Muslim.”
The local sources said that police found jihadist materials in Cumming’s backpack and those are being investigated.
About 11 p.m. at 16th and Wynkoop streets on the Union Station Plaza, Scott von Laken 56-year-old was shot dead, the Police said.
Dave Genova the general manager and CEO of RTD said in a statement that it was an incredibly sad day and on behalf of the entire RTD family, he extends his prayers and express sincere condolences to the officer’s family, friends and loved ones.
In a press release, police said that Lanken was shot from behind on his neck when two women were asking the security officer about light rail routes.
Cummings was from the 1600 block of 14th Street about 20 minutes later, police said. A gun was also recovered.
The shooting is being investigated as a homicide and police are looking into whether it had to do with the victim wearing a uniform.
Police chief Rober White said it was a disheartening when someone loses their life, especially someone who provides safety to the community at large.
Lanken was employed by Allied Universal, which provides security services under contract for RTD.
Mike Meader the assistant general manager of RTD for safety and security said their entire team was deeply saddened by this loss.
“RTD and Allied Universal have been in contact with the officer’s family and they will continue to offer their support”.
Wynkoop was closed between 15th and 17th streets on Wednesday morning as police investigated the shooting. It reopened about 5:50 a.m.
RTD security officers later set up a makeshift memorial at the scene with flowers and signs for Laken. One sign said, "Prayers from the downtown motorcycle unit."
A memorial fund to help support Scott Van Lanken's wife and two children has been established through the Rocky Mountain Law Enforcement Credit Union.
It's under Scott Van Lanken's name. Any person can get the credit union's contact information on its website or by calling 303-458-6660
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