Suspect shot by authorities after hours-long standoff near I-25 in Fountain

FOUNTAIN, Colo. (KRDO) -- A suspect authorities were searching for in Fountain is now in life-threatening condition after being shot by an El Paso County Sheriff's deputy during a standoff.

Fountain Police began a search for an armed suspect who fled on foot near Interstate 25 and Mesa Ridge Parkway Monday afternoon at the Love's County Store. Lieutenant James Vidmar with the El Paso County Sheriff's Office says the suspect ran from the store, crossed through Fountain Creek into Willows Springs Park.

Authorities followed him and evacuated people who were at the park, that's when the hours long standoff began. Lt. Vidmar says authorities tried multiple times to deescalate the situation but it ended when a deputy fired at least one shot, hitting the suspect. That suspect has been taken to the hospital, though the sheriff's office did not identify the suspect.

A line of cars stretched in the southbound lanes of I-25 due to police activity early in the afternoon. Colorado State Patrol confirmed that Fountain PD officers were looking for an armed suspect who may be in the area, but the road was reopened by about 8 p.m.

Keep an eye on traffic with the KRDO Traffic Map at this link.

This is a developing story, check back for updates.