Rashaud Johnson dies in fatal Aurora police shooting

Rashaud Johnson dies in fatal Aurora police shooting

Fatal Aurora police shooting death of Rashaud Johnson – Obituary

Rashaud Johnson, 32, lost his life following an officer-involved shooting in Aurora, Colorado, on May 12, 2025, after police responded to reports of a trespassing incident at an off-site airport parking area on East 56th Avenue.

Initial calls to authorities came in around 2:58 p.m., reporting a man, later identified as Johnson, who appeared disoriented and barefoot, possibly under the influence of narcotics. Witnesses later said he was trying to open car doors and acting aggressively toward employees.

A responding officer arrived at 5:27 p.m. and attempted to engage with Johnson. According to body cam footage released by the Aurora Police Department, Johnson charged at the officer, leading to a physical struggle. Efforts to subdue him with a taser were unsuccessful. The officer issued repeated verbal commands for Johnson to get on the ground, but Johnson did not comply.

Eventually, the situation escalated, and the officer discharged his weapon. Johnson was critically injured and transported to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arriving. The officer sustained minor injuries and, in accordance with department policy, was placed on paid administrative leave following treatment.

The case remains under investigation. The 17th Judicial District Critical Incident Response Team is conducting an independent review, while the Aurora Police Department’s Internal Investigations Bureau is handling the administrative inquiry.