Deputy killed in eviction remembered at memorial

A sheriff’s deputy who was shot and killed while trying to evict a man from a home in a Colorado mountain community is being remembered as brave, compassionate and dedicated to his hometown.

About 4,000 people, including law enforcement officers from around the state, gathered Monday at Faith Bible Chapel in Arvada, for a memorial service for Park County Sheriff’s Cpl. Nate Carrigan.

“He’s a family man, but his family was not just mom, dad, sister, brother, girlfriend, his family was the entire community of Bailey. Entire Park County,” said John Carrigan, Nate’s brother.

Carrigan was a 13-year veteran with the Park County Sheriff’s Office and coached the football and baseball team at Platte Canyon High School.

“We lost a son, a brother, an uncle, nephew, boyfriend, cousin, mentor, coach, hero and most importantly my role model,” said John.

The 35-year-old was killed and two other deputies were wounded on Feb. 24 by 58-year-old Martin Wirth near the town of Bailey. Wirth was a political activist who refused to pay his mortgage and had previous run-ins with police. He also died in the incident.

“I’m so sorry for your loss. Nate was my responsibility,” said Park County Sheriff Fred Wagner.

Carrigan is remembered as a man who was dedicated to his job and community.

“I am the older brother. I will always strive to be the kind of man that Nate was,” said John.

Carrigan had a fiancee and four stepchildren.

If you would like to donate to the family, they’re asking for memorial contributions to a scholarship fund set up in Carrigan’s name at Bank of the West.