Donna Mount's Fatal Mix of Morphine and Alcohol Leads to Manslaughter Charge

Police responded when Donna Mount died in April. But there were no criminal charges in the immediate aftermath of her death — only tears. More than two months later, however, a most unlikely suspect — Lee Keyser, 67 — has been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter in the case. Why?...

By Michael Roberts

June 24, 2015

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Police responded when Donna Mount died in April.

But there were no criminal charges in the immediate aftermath of her death — only tears.

More than two months later, however, a most unlikely suspect — Lee Keyser, 67 — has been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter in the case.

Why?

Because he allegedly gave Mount morphine when she was drunk, leading to tragedy.

Mount's online obituary notes that Mount "worked in Sales and Leasing and was a member of Calvary Worship Center."

She was also the loving mother to two kids, as well as "a dog rescuer who had interests in horses and hiking. Donna loved the Garden of the Gods, gardening and cooking."

Officers with the Colorado Springs Police Department got involved at about 7:54 a.m. on April 6, when they responded to a report of a deceased female at 1031 Adams Drive in the Springs.

Here's an interactive graphic showing the area. If you have problems seeing the image, click "View on Google Maps."

The cause of Mount's death wasn't immediately apparent, so detectives with the CSPD violent crimes homicide unit were among those who responded.

Since that time, according to the CSPD, "extensive followup investigation has been conducted in conjunction with the Office of the Coroner," which determined that morphine mixed with alcohol resulted in Mount losing her life.

Shortly thereafter, her death was ruled a homicide.

That's because investigators believe Mount's roommate, Keyser, provided her with the morphine while she was intoxicated.

Keyser was arrested yesterday afternoon on suspicion of manslaughter.

The CSPD notes that Mount's death is statistically the ninth homicide of 2015, compared to twelve last year at this time.

But the lower number can't take away the pain felt by Mount's friends, family and loved ones. Our sincere condolences.

Here's the booking photos of Lee Keyser.

Send your story tips to the author, Michael Roberts.

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.

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