Pueblo police name detective who shot, killed suspect

The detective who shot and killed a Colorado Springs man Tuesday has been identified as James Olonia, the Pueblo Police Department said Friday.

Olonia is an 11-year veteran of the police department, who has worked in patrol and is currently assigned as a crimes against persons detective.

Olonia fired on Christopher Tavares, 21, after police said he failed to obey commands to show his hands.

Tavares allegedly shot officer Michael Slattery an hour before the encounter with Olonia.

Slattery was shot in the shoulder and is recovering.

Olonia was called to investigate in the 800 block of Craig Street.

Police said as Olonia drove through the area of U.S. 50 West and Elizabeth he observed a man, later identified as Tavares, acting unusual in the median.

Police reported that Olonia attempted to make contact with Tavares, who refused to stop. “Tavares ignored the commands being given by Detective Olonia and began to reach into his clothing, looking for an item,” a police press release said.

Police said a gun was recovered in the area where Tavares fell.

Olonia is on routine administrative leave.