Highlands Ranch, CO – February 8, 2025 – A terrifying shooting incident unfolded late Saturday night at the Main Event entertainment complex in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, leaving one man dead and a woman injured. Authorities confirmed that the deceased suspect, later identified as 32-year-old Jonathan Marks, was shot and killed by a responding Douglas County Sheriff’s deputy outside the venue after he opened fire inside, injuring 28-year-old Sarah Whitman.

The Deadly Incident Unfolds

At approximately 11:45 p.m., Douglas County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) received multiple frantic 911 calls reporting an active shooter situation at Main Event, a popular entertainment venue on Centennial Boulevard. Witnesses described chaos erupting inside the building as gunshots rang out, sending patrons and employees scrambling for safety.

Deputies arrived on the scene within minutes and encountered Marks, armed with a handgun, in the parking lot. According to Douglas County Sheriff Darren Weekly, a deputy issued multiple verbal commands for Marks to drop his weapon, but the suspect refused to comply, instead raising his firearm toward law enforcement. In response, the deputy fired multiple rounds, fatally striking Marks.

Inside the Entertainment Center: Panic and Injuries

Meanwhile, inside the Main Event facility, authorities discovered Sarah Whitman suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest. She was immediately transported to a local hospital, where she underwent emergency surgery. Medical staff have since confirmed that she is in stable condition and expected to survive.

A second woman, 30-year-old Rebecca Allen, was identified as another armed individual inside the venue. She was taken into custody at the scene. Investigators are currently determining her connection to Marks and her involvement in the shooting.

Sheriff Weekly stated that multiple rounds were fired inside the entertainment center, and preliminary evidence suggests that Marks and Allen may have been working together. However, authorities are still piecing together the full timeline and motive behind the attack.

Eyewitnesses Recall the Horror

One patron, 19-year-old Jason Keller, described the terrifying moments when gunfire erupted. “We were playing arcade games when we suddenly heard loud pops. At first, we thought they were fireworks or something, but then people started screaming and running. I saw a woman fall to the ground, and everyone panicked.”

Another witness, 42-year-old Cynthia Rodriguez, was enjoying a birthday celebration with her family when the shooting started. “I grabbed my kids and ran to the nearest exit. It was pure terror. You never think something like this will happen in a place where families come to have fun.”

Law Enforcement’s Swift Response

Authorities credited the fast response of the Douglas County deputy with preventing further casualties. “This situation could have been much worse,” Sheriff Weekly said during a Sunday morning press conference. “We had an armed individual in a large, crowded venue. Fortunately, a deputy was able to neutralize the threat quickly. Unfortunately, that action resulted in a loss of life, but it likely prevented even more tragedy.”

Investigation Underway

The 23rd Judicial District Critical Incident Team has launched an independent investigation into the deputy-involved shooting. The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office is also conducting a separate inquiry into the initial shooting inside the entertainment center.

Detectives are currently reviewing surveillance footage, speaking with witnesses, and analyzing forensic evidence to determine the sequence of events leading up to the shooting. Authorities have not yet disclosed whether Marks and Allen had prior criminal records or any known ties to one another.

Community Reactions

The Highlands Ranch community is reeling from the shocking event, with many expressing gratitude for law enforcement’s rapid response. Local officials and community leaders have offered support to the victims and their families.

“We stand with those affected by this senseless act of violence,” said Highlands Ranch Mayor Stephanie Lawson. “Our law enforcement officers acted bravely, and we are incredibly thankful for their service in keeping our community safe.”

Residents have also begun organizing a candlelight vigil in honor of the victims, scheduled for Monday evening at Civic Green Park. The vigil aims to provide a space for healing and remembrance.

Call for Information

Authorities are urging anyone with additional information about the incident to come forward. Those who were present at the Main Event during the time of the shooting and have photos or videos that may assist in the investigation are encouraged to contact the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office at 303-660-7500.

Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 720-913-STOP (7867).

Ongoing Investigation and Future Updates

As the investigation continues, officials are expected to provide further updates regarding the connection between Marks and Allen, possible motives, and any additional findings from forensic analysis. The deputy involved in the shooting has been placed on standard administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation, as per departmental policy.

For the latest developments, the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office will provide updates via official statements and press releases.