19-Year-Old College Student Killed at Halloween Party — Suspect’s Own Sibling Helps Police Identify Him

A Halloween celebration in Boulder, Colorado, ended in tragedy after a 19-year-old University of Colorado student was fatally shot at an off-campus house party. Another student was also wounded and remains hospitalized. Days after the shooting, police announced an arrest that brought an unexpected twist to the investigation: the suspect was identified with help from his own sibling, who recognized him in photographs circulated by authorities.

The victim was identified as Luca Hanlon, a 19-year-old student at the University of Colorado Boulder. The shooting happened shortly before 11:30 p.m. on Saturday, October 31, at a home in the University Hill neighborhood near campus. Officers responding to emergency calls found two 19-year-old men suffering from gunshot wounds. Both were rushed to the hospital, but Hanlon died from his injuries early Sunday morning, November 1. The second victim survived and remains hospitalized.

Earlier that evening, police had already visited the same property after receiving a noise complaint about a large Halloween party. Officers cited the residents for hosting a nuisance party, and hundreds of attendees eventually left. However, a smaller group remained inside the home. Investigators believe that a group of individuals later attempted to force their way into the property. A confrontation reportedly followed, and gunfire erupted, striking the two students. Those involved then fled the scene.

The investigation took a significant turn when police identified 18-year-old Omar Perez of Thornton, Colorado, as a suspect. According to reports, Perez’s sibling recognized him in photographs released after the shooting and provided information that helped authorities identify him. Perez was arrested early Monday, November 2. He is not affiliated with the University of Colorado. Prosecutors have charged him with first-degree murder, first-degree assault and attempted first-degree murder, all involving allegations of extreme indifference.

Police believe Perez was the only person who fired the shots, although investigators have not ruled out additional charges against other individuals who may have been involved in the confrontation. Authorities are continuing to examine the events leading up to the shooting and are seeking information from witnesses and anyone who attended the party. The arrest came after detectives interviewed approximately 20 witnesses and followed up on tips from the community.

For Hanlon’s family, friends and fellow students, the arrest cannot undo the loss of a young man whose life ended during what should have been a night of celebration. Boulder Police Chief Stephen Redfearn acknowledged the pain experienced by the victims and the wider community, saying that although the arrest may help restore a sense of safety, it cannot bring Hanlon back or erase the trauma suffered by those involved. As the investigation continues, Perez remains accused of the crimes and is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

Source: https://people.com/u-colorado-student-19-killed-at-halloween-party-then-suspects-sibling-turns-him-in-12234059