Colorado Springs mom, toddler son die in murder-suicide, coroner’s office confirms

ESTES PARK, Colo. (KRDO) -- Two people found dead in Rocky Mountain National Park last Friday were identified as a mother and son from Colorado Springs, park officials say.

The mother, 24-year-old Tristen Watson and her son, 17-month-old Christopher Watson died from gunshot wounds.

Tristen Watson had been reported to park rangers as a likely suicidal subject, according to the release. The Larimer County coroner's office confirmed that the mother shot her son and then died by suicide.

In November, Watson posted to Facebook that she was pregnant with a girl due in June. Although it's unclear if she was pregnant at the time of her death, her husband's Facebook post is dedicated to three lives lost.

An online obituary also includes an Aspen Watson.

Tristen was originally from Louisiana, her husband was also in the Army stationed at Fort Carson.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health or suicidal thoughts, call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255. You can also reach out to the Colorado Crisis Services Center at 1-844-493-8255, or text “TALK” to 38255.

El Paso County and Colorado Springs also have many different resources available here.