Photos: Isaac Montoya murdered in South Quivas alley, no suspects (22)

We'd like nothing better than for our Mile High Murder archive to be starved of content -- but that's definitely not the case this week. We've already posted about the killing of John Goggin, for which Floyd Sandoval has been arrested, and the death of Vincente Penaloza and the ongoing...

By Michael Roberts

October 25, 2013

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We'd like nothing better than for our Mile High Murder archive to be starved of content -- but that's definitely not the case this week. We've already posted about the killing of John Goggin, for which Floyd Sandoval has been arrested, and the death of Vincente Penaloza and the ongoing search for suspect Tyree Bowen.

Now, the Denver Police Department has identified Isaac Montoya as the victim of a Monday slaying and is asking for the public's help in finding his murderer.

The incident took place at around 2 p.m. on Monday in the 500 block alley of Sout Quivas Street and South Quieto Way, with neighbors calling the cops after hearing gunfire.

Then, yesterday, the DPD revealed the identity of the victim: Montoya, age 24. He'd clearly had at least one run-in with the law, given that the police photo shared with a crime bulletin is this mug shot:

However, Montoya's Facebook page provides more intimate views, including plenty of photos featuring kids and portraits like this one.... ...and this one: Another photo of Montoya appears on his sister's Facebook page, along with notes of condolence. One post reads, "I am sorry for your loss! You and your entire family! My heart goes out to you all."

We echo these sentiments.

In the meantime, the DPD is asking anyone with information about the homicide to contact the department at 720-913-2000 or Crime Stoppers at 720-913-STOP (7867). A reward of up to $2,000 is being offered in the case.

Here's an interactive graphic of the area near the crime scene. If you have problems seeing the image, click "View Larger Map."

View Larger Map

Send your story tips to the author, Michael Roberts.

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Michael Roberts began his career with Westword in 1990 as music editor. In 1999, he took on a new role, full-time media reporter, as author of a column called The Message. In 2008, he became the lead writer for Westword's news blog, The Latest Word, a position he held until January 2023. Michael continues to freelance for Westword, covering everything from business to sports and the media; he also contributes to Jazziz, a national music magazine. He holds a bachelor's degree from what is now Colorado Mesa University and master's degrees from the University of California, Los Angeles, and Northwestern University.

Contact: Michael Roberts

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