EPCSO responds to barricaded suspect/fire in Security-Widefield, suspects in custody

The El Paso Sheriff’s Office responded to barricaded suspect/fire near Kiva Road around 4:49 p.m. Monday.

Natalie Sosa with the El Paso County Sheriffs’ Office tells KRDO news, the incident started after deputies conducted a search for several arrest warrants placed against the homeowners.

That’s when a female suspect, now identified as Cheyenne Black, came out of the house located near the Big R Stores, while a male party, Zachary Laster, was barricaded inside.

The SWAT team was called out shortly after it was reported that smoke was coming from inside the home. It was also reported that explosions were present as well.

The fire was eventually put out by officials, and both suspects were taken into custody. It was reported that Fontaine Boulevard was also closed for a short period of time between Widefield Blvd and Grenell. We’re told those roads are now back open.

The Big R parking lot is also back open after being on lockdown. The entire neighborhood was evacuated as a precaution during the incident as well.

A witness at the scene told KRDO news she was shopping at Big R when she heard a gunshot, then saw smoke coming from a home, so she ran back inside the store.

How the fire started is currently under investigation. It was said that the male suspect may have started the fire after barricading himself, however, this information has not been confirmed.

Both Laster and Black were taken to the Colorado Springs Justice Center on unspecified drug charges. Laster will also probably face additional charges related to the standoff.

We will continue to keep you updated as more information becomes available.