Man Accused Of Shooting Denver Detective In Arvada Identified

ARVADA, CO — A man who's accused of shooting and injuring an off-duty Denver detective in Arvada has been identified. The detective is expected to recover from his injuries, police said.

Samuel McConnell, 43, was arrested Wednesday after someone reported his vehicle in an apartment parking lot around 5 p.m. in the 8200 block of Sheridan Boulevard, police said.

The man opened fire around 9 a.m. at the Circle K gas station near Kipling Street and W. 80th Avenue, police said. The off-duty detective was shot when he tried to confront McConnell during a robbery, according to authorities.

Denver Police Department Chief Paul Pazen said the detective "displayed great courage" in trying to stop the armed suspect.

The victim was taken to Denver Health Medical Center in stable condition. His injuries are not life-threatening, authorities said.

A Public Safety 'Blue Alert' was sent to metro Denver residents early Wednesday afternoon with a description of the suspect and vehicle. Officers were looking for a gold or silver Chevrolet Equinox with damage and no rear license plate. The vehicle was last seen heading south on Wadsworth Boulevard from 72nd Avenue, police said.

"Somebody who is willing to fire on a police officer is a danger to this community," Pazen said.

The identity of the officer who was shot has not been released.

McConnell faces charges of attempted first degree murder and aggravated robbery.