Double-murder/suicide suspected on Welby Road Terrace in Thornton (39-40)

Last night was a particularly bloody one in the metro area, with much of the carnage taking place in a typically quiet portion of Thornton. The street in question sports the bucolic suburban name of Welby Road Terrace. Three bodies have been found, and investigators believe they represent the tragic...

By Michael Roberts

February 24, 2014

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Last night was a particularly bloody one in the metro area, with much of the carnage taking place in a typically quiet portion of Thornton.

The street in question sports the bucolic suburban name of Welby Road Terrace.

Three bodies have been found, and investigators believe they represent the tragic conclusion of a double-murder/suicide.

Photos, video and details below.

The first communications from the Thornton Police Department about the gruesome discovery came via the following tweet:

TPD officers on scene of what appears to be a double homicide/suicide in the 9200 block Welby Terrace Road.
— Thornton Police Dept (@ThorntonPolice) February 24, 2014

Later, the TPD offered more specifics. At approximately 8:49 p.m. last night, according to the department, officers responded to a call of shots fired at 9318 Welby Road Terrace, an address seen in the following interactive graphic. If you have problems seeing the image, click "View Larger Map."

View Larger Map

Neighbors told operators that they heard multiple rounds discharged, and the cops soon found they were right.

Officers had to force their way into the home. Once they did, they found one adult male and two female bodies.

Also present: a weapon.

The TPD notes that no suspects are being sought at this time -- a statement that generally means the shooter is believed to be among the dead.

Adams County coroner's office personnel are on site this morning along with the rest of the investigatory team. Thus far, no victims have been identified.

Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to phone the Thornton Police Department at 720-977-5150. In the meantime, here's a 7News report.

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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