For Immediate Release: July 11, 2025

Pueblo, CO—  On July 9, 2025, at approximately 10:58 p.m., Pueblo Police officers were dispatched to the 2000 block of Pine Street in response to a reported domestic disturbance involving weapons. Upon arrival, officers learned that a male suspect had kidnapped a victim at gunpoint; however, the victim managed to escape and call for help.

As officers secured the perimeter of the residence, they observed the suspect pouring gasoline on the front porch. The suspect then barricaded himself inside and made statements indicating a desire for law enforcement to use lethal force against him.

A search warrant was obtained, and the Pueblo Police SWAT team was deployed to assist in the situation. An officer established communication with the suspect via phone and engaged in negotiations for several hours, aiming for a peaceful surrender.

At approximately 2:20 a.m. on July 10, 2025, smoke and flames were observed coming from the rear of the residence. By 3:33 a.m., the fire had spread significantly throughout the home. The suspect informed negotiators of his intent to exit the residence and urged them to prepare for a confrontation.

As the home became fully engulfed in flames, the suspect, identified as Ernesto Alarcon, 55, exited while carrying a high-powered AR-style rifle over his shoulder and a shotgun in hand. He attempted to provoke the SWAT officers but did not aim his weapons at them. Officers utilized less lethal options and leveraged the smoke from the fire to bring the standoff to an end at approximately 4:35 a.m.

Alarcon was arrested and charged with Aggravated Motor Vehicle Theft, Second-Degree Kidnapping, First-Degree Arson, Menacing, and Possession of a Large-Capacity Magazine (prohibited).

This prolonged and intense standoff concluded peacefully due to the excellent training and commendable restraint exhibited by Pueblo Police officers. 

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Bianca Hicks
Public Information Officer and Community Engagement Manager
Contact: 719-553-2517