Denver Officers Cleared in Fatal Gas Station Shooting
The District Attorney found that officers were justified in using force against a suspect in a stolen truck.
Updated on Sept. 18, 2026 in Law Enforcement
The Denver District Attorney has declined to file charges against two officers involved in a shooting on June 2. Authorities determined the officers were justified in firing at Joshua Erwin Jackson, who was operating a stolen traffic control truck.
Why it matters
The decision underscores the legal threshold for the use of deadly force by law enforcement in Denver. Officials cleared the officers after determining they acted out of a belief that they were in imminent danger.
The Denver District Attorney concluded that the use of force by the two officers was justified under the law. The investigation followed a June 2 incident at a Sinclair gas station involving a suspect armed with a replica handgun.
The players
Joshua Erwin Jackson
The suspect operated a stolen traffic control truck and possessed a replica weapon designed to look like a handgun.
Denver District Attorney
This local office is responsible for reviewing officer-involved shootings to determine if criminal charges are warranted.
Colorado State Patrol
This state agency is responsible for law enforcement and public safety duties throughout the state of Colorado.
The details
An Adams County deputy and a Colorado State Patrol trooper fired at Joshua Erwin Jackson after tracking his stolen truck via GPS to a Sinclair gas station on Santa Fe Drive. Officers observed Jackson through the storefront glass before firing as they perceived a threat from his replica weapon.
Timeline
June 2, 2026: The shooting incident occurred at a gas station.
September 18, 2026: The District Attorney announced no charges would be filed.
Legal Context
This case follows the established investigative protocols for the Colorado police-involved shooting review process. These evaluations are standard for determining if officers operated within the bounds of the law during high-stakes encounters.
The clearing of these officers means no further criminal proceedings will affect local court dockets regarding this event. Residents can expect no changes to public safety protocols or road access following the investigation's closure.
The takeaway
The determination confirms that the officers met the required legal standards for utilizing force in a life-threatening situation. The incident highlights the dangers officers face when confronting suspects armed with realistic-looking replica weapons.
Further reading
For additional context on departmental oversight, visit the Law Enforcement section.
