Denver Police Officer's Gun Used By Man Who Killed Woman Over Dog Poop

An investigation of a fatal shooting in the Ballpark neighborhood in early June found that the gun used by the suspect belonged to a Denver police officer.

Michael Close is suspected of shooting and killing 21-year-old Isabella Thallas following a short fight between Close and Thallas' boyfriend after their dog pooped in a rock garden outside of Close's apartment complex.

A witness said Close opened fire on Thallas and 27-year-old Darian Simon from his window. Thallas died on the scene and Simon survived two bullets to his legs.

The gun used was an AR-15 that belonged to a Denver police officer who Close was a good friend.

The rifle was taken from the officer's home without his knowledge or permission, according to the Denver Police Department's public information officer Doug Schepman.

The officer notified investigators when he learned that his rifle was missing and may have been used in the incident.

The rifle was not issued to the officer by the Denver Police Department, Schepman verified on Tuesday, January 5.

Close is facing 12 felony counts, six misdemeanor counts, and four potential sentence enhancers if he is convicted in the shooting.

Close's arraignment is scheduled for March 8 at 8:30 A.M.

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