Man Charged With Murder In Connection With Shooting Death

JEFFERSON COUNTY, CO — A man has been charged with first-degree murder in connection with a shooting death just outside Golden, the 1st Judicial District Attorney's Office announced Monday.

William Taft, 49, faces multiple charges, including first-degree murder, attempted murder, possession of a weapon by a previous offender and possession of a prohibited large-capacity magazine, the DA's office said.

On Oct. 24, deputies were called to the 5000 block of McIntyre Street after they received a report of a person with a gunshot wound. The deputies found Michael Bryan, 40, lying on the ground outside a house, according to an arrest affidavit. He was taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Taft lived on the property where Bryan was found, according to the affidavit. The two got into a physical fight, and Bryan was shot, officials said.

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Taft is being held at the Jefferson County jail. He is scheduled to appear back in court for his preliminary hearing Dec. 1.