Death Investigation Near Ridge Road

Boulder County, Colo. - Boulder County Communications received a 911 call at approximately 10:44 a.m. Monday, April 20, 2026, regarding an unknown problem near the 1400 block Ridge Road, northeast of the town of Nederland.

The emergency communications specialist who took the call suspected the caller was experiencing a mental health crisis.

Deputies arrived at approximately 11:02 a.m. and made contact with a male outside a residence who was holding a weapon. Within minutes of deputies’ arrival, he used the weapon on himself. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Deputies searched the residence and surrounding property and did not locate any other individuals. There is no known threat to the public.

Detectives with the Boulder County Sheriff’s Office responded and are conducting a joint investigation with the Boulder County Coroner’s Office. The official cause and manner of death will be determined by the Coroner’s Office.

The identity of the decedent will be released by the Coroner’s Office following scientific confirmation and notification of next of kin.

Anyone experiencing a mental health crisis is encouraged to seek support. In Colorado, individuals can call or text 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, or chat at 988lifeline.org for free, confidential support 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also contact Colorado Crisis Services by calling 1-844-493-8255 or texting TALK to 38255 to connect with trained professionals. Those in contact with law enforcement may request a co-responder to join first responders to provide in-person support from a mental health professional.

The case is documented under case number 26-01788.

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/s/ V. Montez,

Public Information Officer