Lakewood police officer Nic Graham identified as victim in Colorado bus shooting

A 33-year-old Lakewood police officer who was killed in a shootout with a suspect aboard a regional transit bus in Colorado has been identified as Nic Graham, a department veteran remembered for his investigative work and dedication to the community.

Lakewood Police Chief Philip Smith identified Graham during a news conference Friday, saying his death had left his family, colleagues and the community grieving. Graham joined the Lakewood Police Department (LPD) on Jan. 14, 2019, after graduating from the department’s academy.

Graham later became a field training agent, helping prepare new officers, before moving into investigations. He worked on the department’s major crimes team, handling cases involving murder, domestic violence and stalking. According to Smith, Graham worked on 322 cases, the highest caseload on the team.

He received the department’s Special Investigations Unit Wingman Award in 2023 for his work involving gang intelligence, investigative support and major swatting investigations. He also participated in the Adopt a School program and once saved the life of a person experiencing an overdose.

The shooting happened Thursday after police began searching for a suspect involved in a hit-and-run crash near Kipling Street and West 13th Avenue. An officer later recognized the suspect boarding a Regional Transportation District (RTD) bus near Colfax Avenue and Wadsworth Boulevard.

When officers approached the man at approximately 6:32 p.m., he opened fire. Police returned fire, killing the suspect, identified by CBS Colorado as Gabriel Garcia, who was reportedly on parole.

Four LPD officers were shot, including Graham, who later died. A civilian was also injured. Two officers and the civilian were later released from the hospital, while another officer remained hospitalized as of Friday.

The First Judicial District Critical Incident Response Team will investigate the shooting, as required by protocol.

Smith remembered Graham for his kindness, patience and empathy, saying he consistently supported victims and helped colleagues throughout his career.

The post Lakewood police officer Nic Graham identified as victim in Colorado bus shooting appeared first on BNO News.

Ella Rae Greene, Editor In Chief

Ella Greene

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