Man Shoots His Way Into Colorado Supreme Court Building, Causes Extensive Damage

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
02/01/2024 22h55

Denver, CO - A man leaving the scene of a car wreck in downtown Denver on Tuesday engaged in a shocking act of violence as he shot his way into the Colorado Supreme Court building, reportedly causing extensive damage, before being apprehended by police. Authorities stated that the incident appears unrelated to the court's recent ruling banning former President Donald Trump from the ballot.

The Colorado Supreme Court's decision to apply a rarely used constitutional provision, which disqualifies individuals who have "engaged in insurrection" from holding office, has garnered significant attention and led to threats against the justices. However, law enforcement officials confirmed that the events of Tuesday were not connected to the ruling. Trump is expected to appeal the decision to the U.S. Supreme Court later today.

The suspect involved in the incident has been identified as Brandon Olsen, a 44-year-old man. According to police records, a confrontation ensued between Olsen and the driver of the other car involved in the earlier crash, during which Olsen brandished a handgun. Shortly thereafter, he fired his weapon, breaking through a window at the Ralph Carr Colorado Justice Center, the home of the state's Supreme Court as well as several other courtrooms and administrative offices.

After gaining entry to the building, Olsen proceeded to the seventh floor, where he fired additional shots and reportedly set a fire, triggering the building's fire extinguishers. However, authorities have confirmed that no one was injured during the incident. At approximately 3 a.m., Olsen called 911 and voluntarily surrendered to the police without resistance.

Law enforcement agencies, including the Colorado State Patrol and the Denver Police Department, are taking the incident seriously and have assured the public that the safety of those inside the Colorado Supreme Court building remains a top priority. The State Patrol has increased security measures for the justices since their ruling, though specific details have not been disclosed. Security officers at the building are currently unarmed but can call for assistance from armed state patrol officers stationed nearby if needed.

As investigations into the incident continue, a shattered window on the ground floor of the Colorado Supreme Court building serves as a stark reminder of the events that transpired. Glass from the broken window litters the sidewalk along the busy downtown street where the building is located.

Brandon Olsen is scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday, and as of now, no attorney has been listed on his behalf in court documents.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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