Pueblo police investigation finds officers wounded by friendly fire

An investigation by the 10th Judicial District Critical Incident Response Team determined that two Pueblo police officers were wounded by friendly fire during an officer-involved shooting on October 10. The incident began when officers responded to a home invasion report on Gaylord Avenue. Following a pursuit, officers confronted an armed suspect at the Regency Park Apartments.

During the confrontation, the suspect, identified as 36-year-old Luis Morales, was shot and killed. In the ensuing gunfire, Officer Jonathon Woehler sustained gunshot wounds to both legs, while Officer Justin Ortiz suffered a graze wound to his ankle. Both officers have since been released from medical care and are recovering.

Pueblo Police Chief Chris Noeller stated that the department will review tactics, officer positioning, communication, and decision-making to identify areas for improvement. The findings are expected to inform potential changes to training, equipment, and procedures.