GARCO CORONER IDENTIFIES MAN SHOT BY DEPUTIES
Glenwood Springs— Garfield County Coroner Rob Glassmire identified the man who was shot and killed by sheriff’s deputies who say he brandished a gun after leading them on a high-speed chase along eastbound I-70 from Parachute to Canyon Creek. Glassmire says 45-year-old Brian Fritze, of Parachute, died of multiple gunshot wounds. A full autopsy report has not been released. Authorities say Fritze fled in a pickup truck after deputies were called to a domestic violence incident late Tuesday afternoon. Deputies and state troopers pursued Fritze onto the interstate, and troopers put out spike strips that flattened the truck’s front tires at teh 109 exit. Investigators say Fritze fled on foot holding a gun to his head and was shot when he turned back toward the officers and refused to follow their orders. No one else was injured. Officials say Fritze had a brief criminal history that included child abuse, drunk driving, harassment and domestic violence.
DENVER (AP) – Mineral owners would get compensation from local governments that restrict fracking under a bill being considered by Colorado lawmakers. Whether more regulations over fracking are needed is expected to be one of the most hotly debated questions lawmakers will take on this legislative session. The bill is being heard by a Senate committee today.
DENVER (AP) – Colorado Republicans say parents need more control over their children’s school curriculum and medical treatment, and they’ve advanced what they call a “Parents’ Bill of Rights” with their newfound majority in the Senate. The Senate gave initial approval to the bill yesterday. Democrats argued the measure is too broad.
GRAND JUNCTION (AP) – A 25-year-old man charged in a fatal stabbing near Grand Junction has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder. Lee McDonald entered his plea Tuesday in the July 13 death of 27-year-old Nicholas Potts. Investigators say witnesses told them they saw McDonald chase Potts, yelling at him as he repeatedly stabbed him with two knives.
BRECKENRIDGE (AP) – Summit County authorities say they believe a man and woman died in a murder-suicide. The Summit County Sheriff’s Office says two bodies were found Tuesday when deputies were asked to check on them. Investigators say multiple shots were fired inside the home and a weapon was found. Their names have not been released.
