Man killed in officer-involved shooting identified as Fort Carson soldier
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) - The man who was shot and killed by Colorado Springs police officers Sunday has been identified as a Fort Carson soldier.
Sgt. Virgill Thrope, 28, was a Cavalry Scout with the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division. He joined the Army in 2012 and had been stationed at the Mountain Post since 2016. He was deployed to Afghanistan through much of 2013. During his time in the Army he received multiple awards, including the Army Commendation and Achievement Medals, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary and Service Medals, and the NATO Service Medal.
Thorpe was shot Sunday night on the 3200 block of Oak Creek Dr. East. A woman called police for a reported domestic incident and said a man was armed with a rifle. Four officers responded to the call just after 10 p.m., and when they tried to talk to him, investigators say Thorpe ran inside a home and grabbed a rifle. The officers opened fire when he allegedly pointed the weapon at them.
Thorpe was taken to the hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. The four officers have been placed on administrative leave in accordance with Colorado Springs Police Department policy. The El Paso County Sheriff's Office is now handling the investigation.
In a statement sent to KRDO, 3rd Armored Brigade commander Col. Grant S. Fawcett said "[t]he Iron Brigade is deeply saddened by the loss of Sgt. Virgill Thorpe. Sgt. Thorpe was a tremendous leader and teammate, and his tragic passing is felt throughout the formation. We will continue to focus on supporting his family through this difficult time."
