AURORA, Colo. (KDVR) — New video shows a deadly police shooting in Aurora that is drawing both outrage and reflection.
A man was killed by an officer near 6th Avenue and Interstate 225 Saturday night. Police said the man moved toward the officer aggressively.
A patch of the sidewalk near the scene turned into a space of mourning and protest for Rajon. Candles, balloons and flowers fill the space feet away from where the confrontation happened.
Aurora police said the officer working a DUI enforcement tried to stop the man for a traffic violation, but the vehicle crashed into two other cars — that’s when the driver got out.
“Started walking towards the officer in a really aggressive posture,” said Aurora Police Chief Todd Chamberlain.
Chamberlain explained what happened next.
“After much conversation, at some point it appears that a gun was seen by the officer on the ground and the suspect appeared to be walking towards that weapon,” he said.
That’s when the officer opened fire, shooting three times.
“I’ve been crying like all night, all night, it should not have happened, you know, it should not have happened, said witness Robert Berg. “Like the poor guy, like he didn’t deserve that, you know, and the cop didn’t deserve to be put in that position.”
Loved ones said the man killed was 37-year-old Rajon Belt.
“A father of seven and a student at Pickens Tech working to become an electrician,” said Quincy Miller.
He said he has known Belt since he was 14 years old.
“His oldest son was with him during the time of this incident,” said Miller. “So, definitely just on a good path, trying to get his life better. I really don’t know everything, but I know that there’s a better way.”
The shooting has sparked raw emotion across Aurora. Some say the officer showed restraint, while others believe the use of deadly force was avoidable.
Most agree they want answers and change.
“I guess better ways to resolve crazy situations. So, you know, I’m just searching for answers like everyone else,” said Miller.
A vigil was held Sunday night in his honor.
“It feels good, all the support, you know. All the family out,” said son Zion Murphy-Belt at the vigil. “My dad was a good person. You know, the way he died was not cool. We want justice for sure.”
Police have not yet released body camera footage or the officer’s name, although FOX31 has inquired.
Police said a full investigation is now underway.
Anthony Sutton is a business strategist and writer with a passion for management, leadership, and entrepreneurship. With years of experience in the corporate world, he shares insights on business growth, strategy, and innovation through management-opleiding.org.
