GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KREX) — Grand Junction Police released new information surrounding an officer-involved shooting in Grand Junction, on January 24.

GJPD identified the suspect in the case as 24-year-old Emilio Cordova. He was booked into the Mesa County Detention Facility on the following charges:

  • Attempted first-degree assault on a peace officer
  • Attempted vehicular assault
  • Menacing
  • Reckless driving
  • Criminal mischief
  • Aggravated auto theft
Emilio Cordova, 1/30/23, courtesy of the Mesa County Detention Center

The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office identified the deputy who discharged his firearm as Deputy Dervin Sandell.

Mesa County Sheriff Deputy Dervin Sandell

Deputy Sandell has been with the Mesa County Sheriff’s office for 8 years and is currently assigned to the Major Offender Task Force.

The shooting happened around 7:50 p.m. on January 24, after the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office with assistance from the U.S. Marshall’s Office says it attempted to apprehend Cordova with a felony arrest warrant. Officers approached Cordova near a Carl’s Jr. at 2842 North Avenue. The deputy-involved shooting happened soon after, injuring Cordova. Emergency workers transported Cordova to the hospital immediately following the shooting. Officials transported Cordova to the Mesa County Detention Facility after the hospital released him.

The Grand Junction Police Department (GJPD) is leading the ongoing Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT) investigation for this shooting. CIRT will turn over its findings to the 21st Judicial District Attorney’s Office for review upon completion of the investigation. As per Mesa County Sheriff’s Office policy, Deputy Sandell will remain on paid administrative leave for the duration of the investigation.

Western Slope Now will update this story when new details are released.