Detective Donald Ray Young

Detective Donald Ray Young

Denver Police Department, Colorado

End of Watch Sunday, May 8, 2005

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Donald Ray Young

Detective Donald Young was shot and killed at a rental hall on West Mississippi Street.

He and another officer were in uniform, working an off-duty job at a private celebration, when a man approached both officers from behind and opened fire on them in an unprovoked attack. The shooting occurred at approximately 1:00 a.m. as patrons were leaving as the event ended. Detective Young was killed, and the second officer was wounded.

The suspect fled the scene but was captured on June 5, 2005, in Culiacan on the western coast of Mexico. U.S. Marshals and Mexican authorities located and arrested him without incident. The suspect was sentenced to 80 years in prison on October 25, 2005.

Detective Young had served with the Denver Police Department for 12 years and was assigned to the Fugitive / Bomb Unit. He is survived by his wife, two young daughters, and a son.

Bio

  • Age 43
  • Tour 12 years
  • Badge 93021

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Gun; Unknown type
  • Offender Sentenced to 80 years

ambush, gang member, illegal alien

Most Recent Reflection

View all 327 Reflections

Just starting to workout and pulled out a t-shirt to wear that commemorated the 2nd Annual Donny Young Memorial ride. I still think about you Donny and what a great guy and fellow Bomb Squad member you were. You’re never forgotten my friend! Hey buddy, how about putting in a good word to God for all the first responders down here trying to make a difference! They could sure use it! This world you left is not the same! Peace brother!

Detective Joe Tennant
Denver Police Department Bomb Squad (Retired)

July 15, 2024

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