FEDERAL HEIGHTS, Colo. Federal Heights will once again look into the employment status of its city manager at a council meeting scheduled for Tuesday.

The regular meeting will come six days after Mayor Pro Tem Doris Peterson began reading a motion during a special meeting to put City Manager Jacquie Halburnt on paid administrative leave, only to be stopped by City Attorney Bill Hayashi, who told the council that they could not introduce a motion because the agenda only listed a discussion item.

It was a bizarre turn at a meeting that was scheduled solely to discuss the employment statuses of Halburnt and Hayashi. What occurred left the residents in attendance stunned and upset. One resident called it a travesty while another said it was a mockery of the city.

The special meeting was called less than two weeks after Police Chief Robert Grado and Fire Chief Marc Mahoney were abruptly fired. It ended without a discussion or a vote on Halburnts future, just shock and dismay, leading Mayor Linda Montoya to say she was disappointed and ashamed to be mayor of the city.

Former Aurora City Attorney Charles Richardson told Denver7 Investigates the ongoing turmoil within the Federal Heights city government is unprecedented and said city council should consider hiring outside legal counsel.

"This is very unique in a tragic way," Richardson said.

Watch Jennifer Kovaleski's report in the player below:

Denver7 Investigates showed Richardson video of the recent Federal Heights Special City Council meeting. Richardson, who spent nearly three decades serving as Aurora's city attorney, said taking adverse action against both top city officers at the same time creates a conflict of interest for the city attorney, who normally advises the council.

"It just raises so many issues, because when the city manager is at risk, the reliance on the city attorney becomes so profound," Richardson said.

During the special meeting, there was confusion over whether the council could vote to place the city manager on paid administrative leave. Richardson said Hayashi, the city attorney, made the right call by not allowing a vote, since it was not listed on the agenda.

"It's better to err on the side that the city attorney did, which was set up a future meeting and have it done right," Richardson said.

However, when asked if the council could have added an action item during the meeting to place the city manager on leave, Richardson simply said that the question was not addressed.

Richardson warned that any action comes with legal risks for the city if not done properly, and the situation will impact residents.

"Ultimately, they're going to bear the burden of all the turmoil that's going on at the high levels of their municipal government," Richardson said.

Adams County District Attorney Brian Mason previously told Denver7 Investigates that the fallout extends beyond politics.

"I'm deeply concerned about the impact that this could have on community safety," he said.

Both Hayashi and Halburnt declined to comment after the meeting last week and did not respond to emails on Monday.

An attempt to put the Federal Heights city manager and city attorney on paid administrative leave was halted Wednesday night after the city attorney told council a motion was out of order.

It's unclear whether a vote to place City Manager Jacquie Halburnt and City Attorney Bill Hayashi would have passed, but while a motion was being read, Hayashi said the motion was inappropriate because the agenda listed a discussion item and not an action item.

Councilors spent more than 90 minutes in executive session Wednesday during a special meeting to discuss the employment status of Halburnt and Hayashi.

The meeting took place less than two weeks after Police Chief Robert Grado and Fire Chief Marc Mahoney were abruptly fired on April 3. Staff was informed of the firing in an email sent out at 6:40 p.m. on a Friday night.

Prior to executive session, roughly a dozen residents spoke during public comment, the majority raising concerns over how the firings were handled and demanding accountability from the city manager.

What has happened is unacceptable, unprofessional and deeply disrespectful, resident Renee Lund said. This isnt going to go away. We will continue to show up, speak out and demand answers until this is addressed.

Watch what community members had to say

Grados wife, Judy, also spoke via zoom in defense of her husband.

I am here today to speak about the wrongful termination of my husband, she said. A police chief with a 40-year unblemished career who was fired by the city manager through an email and what we believe was retaliation.

After the motion to put Halburnt and Hayashi on leave was stopped, residents expressed outrage during a second public comment session. Some urged the council to vote to add an action item to the agenda. That did not happen, nor did any discussion, and the meeting was adjourned.

Tensions in Federal Heights have been building between first responders and city staff for months. In January, police and firefighters issued a vote of no confidence against Halburnt.

Earlier, Denver7 Investigates spoke exclusively with Adams and Broomfield county District Attorney Brian Mason, who raised serious concerns over the firing of Grado, saying that he had turned the department around after it was plagued with a backlog of cases in 2023.

He provided stability. He provided expertise. He provided leadership, and now he's gone, Mason said of Grado. That's a huge concern to me.

Mayor Linda Montoya said she was ashamed to be mayor.

In a joint statement from the police and fire unions, they said, "Our unions thank the public for their support. We find the outcome tonight's special Council session unacceptable and we will have no further comment out of fear of retaliation."

ADAMS COUNTY, Colo. The district attorney for Adams and Broomfield counties is raising serious concerns after the sudden firings of Federal Heights police and fire chiefs earlier this month.

District Attorney Brian Mason said those moves could undermine safety and trust in the community.

Mason explained that the city, which is just 2 square miles and home to roughly 14,000 people, is chronically underfunded.

I'm deeply concerned about the stability of the Federal Heights Police Department, Mason said in an exclusive interview with Denver7 Investigates. I'm deeply concerned about the impact that this could have on community safety.

Watch Denver7 Investigates interview with the district attorney about these two firings, and learn what's next, in the video below.

On April 3, Federal Heights Police Chief Robert Grado and Fire Chief Marc Mahoney were abruptly fired, according to police and fire unions. City staff were informed of the move in an email that was sent at 6:40 p.m. on a Friday night.

The email, obtained by Denver7 Investigates, noted that the two chiefs had resigned, but statements from both fire and police unions said both chiefs were fired without warning.

The email said that Karl Ballard would serve as interim chief of police and Finance Director Tim Weitzman would oversee the fire department.

District Attorney Mason said former Chief Grado had turned the police department around in recent years, after he was made aware of a backlog of cases in 2023.

We had victims of crime, serious crimes, sexual assaults, who had no contact with the police department for years, Mason said, adding that he was not aware of any issues that would have warranted Grados firing.

After Grado became chief, Mason said the backlog started clearing up and Grado was re-engaging with victims and recruiting top-notch officers, despite having limited resources.

He provided stability. He provided expertise. He provided leadership, and now he's gone, Mason said. That's a huge concern to me.

At a Federal Heights City Council meeting the following Tuesday, the council did not discuss the firings, but multiple citizens spoke during public comment, including Ken Murphy, husband of the city's mayor, Linda Montoya.

He noted that the mayor who missed the meeting because she was sick learned of the firings from a Denver7 story.

Tensions were brewing between first responders and some city leaders for some time. In January, police and firefighters unanimously issued a vote of no confidence in City Manager Jacquie Halburnt.

The unions also called on the city council to investigate Halburnt, accusing her of failing to lead and not providing enough resources.

Halburnt declined an interview for this story, but sent a written statement, calling the situation a personnel matter, not a City Council matter.

Halburnt's full statement to Denver7 Investigates is below:

The police and fire unions said in a statement that they are deeply troubled by the lack of transparency following the termination of both chiefs.

Late Tuesday, the city posted an agenda for a special city council meeting, where it states it will discuss the employment status of both Halburnt and City Attorney Bill Hayashi.

Mason said strong leaders are needed in the city, and said it had one in Grado. He added that his message to city leaders in Federal Heights is that public safety should be the No. 1 priority.

The City of Federal Heights needs to have leaders of integrity at every level and especially as chief of police, he said. I'm bewildered by his termination and by what message that sends to victims of crime in the city of Federal Heights."

Federal Heights first responders have unanimously issued a vote of no confidence in City Manager Jacquie Halburnt as crime rates surge in the community of about 14,000 people.

At a Tuesday night city council meeting, police and fire department unions voiced their concerns surrounding staffing levels, safety and operational resources.

"We've identified ongoing concerns with city manager leadership," said Josh Maikranz, president of Local 4222, a firefighters union.

The union expressed frustration that previous attempts to address these issues with the city manager have gone unresolved.

Some members of the community even called for Halburnt's resignation or for her to be placed on administrative leave.

Police department data reveals concerning crime trends in Federal Heights.

Theft has increased 26.3%, domestic violence has risen 20.7%, and assaults have spiked 57.4% year-to-date, according to a presentation made by the department in January.

Long-time resident Brian Trullinger said the community has noticed the changes.

"We've noticed that police have not been coming on calls," he said. "If they do, it takes forever to get here."

He described Federal Heights as a close-knit community where neighbors know each other, but expressed concern about the current situation.

"That's what suffers. It's all of us in the community," Trullinger said.

City Council member Celeste Arner, who represents Ward I, acknowledged the concerns raised by first responders and residents.

"I think we need to take action as soon as possible and investigate," Arner said.

Members of city council said Tuesday night they plan to call an executive session to discuss next steps.

In a statement, Halburnt told Denver7 there is currently an outside third-party investigation taking place. She also wrote, "As this is a personnel issue, I am unable to discuss it.

Nevertheless, those like Trullinger remain hopeful that community voices will lead to changes in city leadership.

"Hang in there, Federal Heights, because help is on the way, and I'm going to fight for you every step of the way," he said.

UPDATE | Thursday, Oct. 23 at 11:58 a.m. | The 2-year-old boy was located and safe with his mother, the Federal Heights Police Department said. The suspect, Louis Salvador, 41, is in custody for active arrest warrants for felony domestic violence assault, misdemeanor child abuse and a restraining order violation. Charges related to this incident on Thursday are pending.

The Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) issued an alert for an endangered missing 2-year-old boy Thursday morning. Sebastian Salvador was last seen Wednesday around 6 p.m. with his father, 41-year-old Louis Salvador.

The two were in the Federal Heights neighborhood on W. 92nd Ave. between Pecos Street and Federal Boulevard. The CBI said law enforcement is concerned about Sebastian Salvador's safety.

Louis Salvador has brown eyes and brown hair. He's 5 feet, 9 inches tall and weighs approximately 170 pounds. He was last seen wearing a light brown jacket and light brown pants.

Sebastian Salvador has brown hair and brown eyes. He's about 3 feet tall and weighs approximately 40 pounds. He was wearing Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle pajamas.

Anyone with information about either of their whereabouts is asked to call 911 or the Federal Heights Police Department at 303-428-833.

FEDERAL HEIGHTS, Colo. One person was killed, and a Federal Heights police officer suffered minor injuries after a domestic incident escalated to a police shooting Thursday afternoon.

The situation began just after 2 p.m. near the 8900 block of Federal Boulevard.

According to the Federal Heights Police Department, officers were responding to a reported domestic disturbance at a storage facility when a suspect rammed their vehicle into the police vehicles. This "led to an exchange of gunfire," according to police.

Federal Heights PD did not provide further details about the shooting or the circumstances that led up to it.

Two people who were inside the suspect vehicle were taken to the hospital. One person died from their injuries, according to police. It is unclear if they were shot or died from other injuries.

A Federal Heights officer suffered minor injuries and was taken to the hospital for evaluation.

The 17th Judicial District's Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT) was activated and is investigating the shooting.

Federal Boulevard was closed between 88th and 92nd avenues for several hours as investigators processed the scene.

FEDERAL HEIGHTS, Colo. Federal Heights plans to tackle speeding across the city in the new year.

City leaders told Denver7 they hope to install four speed cameras and two red light cameras at four trouble spots in April:

"It's crazy, it's constant. They're racing," said Norm Scrivani, who lives off of West 92nd Avenue.

While working in his yard, Norm Scrivani gets a front-row seat to speeders. It's a problem Federal Heights neighbors say they've been dealing with for years.

"We were hoping they put a light here or something to stop [it] because we've had people go through the fence... end up in people's backyards. I mean, it's just nuts," said Scrivani.

This past July, a car was split in half following a deadly high-speed crash at West 92nd Avenue and North Tejon St.

"It is a hard thing to come up with solutions for this busy of a street," said City Council Member Bonnie Sellers.

Since taking her seat on the city council, Sellers has made it her mission to come up with a solution.

"I hope it saves a life, just one life," she said.

The cameras are set to be installed in April, according to Sellers. Violations for speeding will cost $40 while running a red light will cost $75.

Speed limits for those cameras have not been determined. City leaders say they are still ironing out the details.

But in the meantime, neighbors said they're relieved to know their safety concerns are being taken seriously.

"They should have done it a while ago. I don't know what they're waiting for," said Scrivani

A man who allegedly stabbed a woman to death in Federal Heights in late December has been apprehended in Mexico, according to the 17th Judicial District Attorney's Office.

Adrian Carracedo-Vega, 35, is accused of killing Sachely Diaz, 20, on Dec. 30. The Federal Heights Police Department said somebody discovered Diaz injured outside the Tuscan Heights Apartments, located at 1700 W. 85th Avenue. She was transported to a hospital, where she died.

Police identified Carracedo-Vega as a suspect and began searching for him. They said early on that they believed he may have fled to Texas or Mexico.

Police said they believe the two knew each other, but those details have not been released.

Carracedo-Vega was apprehended in Mexico thanks to the FBI Safe Streets Task Force. He will be extradited back to Colorado, the district attorney's office said.

No other details were immediately available.

UPDATE: The missing man has been located, according to CBI. The Endangered Missing Alert has been deactivated.

FEDERAL HEIGHTS, Colo. The Colorado Bureau of Investigation has issued an alert for a missing 56-year-old man with cognitive impairments.

Roy Wilzbach, 56, was last seen walking in the 2500 block of West 91st Place in Federal Heights around 11:30 p.m. Monday.

Wilzbach is described as a white man, 6 feet tall and 165 pounds with brown hair and blue eyes. He was last seen wearing gray sweatpants, a blue long-sleeve shirt, white shoes and a beanie. His hair was in a ponytail.

CBI said Wilzbach has cognitive impairments and mental health issues.

Anyone with information about Wilzbach's whereabouts is asked to call 911 or the Federal Heights Police Department 303-428-8538.

FEDERAL HEIGHTS, Colo. A pedestrian died after a driver who was allegedly speeding in Federal Heights drove onto the sidewalk and crashed into a tree on Sunday morning.

The Federal Heights Police Department said around 10:41 a.m. Sunday, multiple people called 911 to report a single-car crash at W. 92nd Avenue and N. Pecos Street, near the Holiday Plaza businesses.

When officers arrived at the scene, they found a deceased female in the road and a 1970s yellow Ford Mustang that had crashed into a tree. The driver, only identified as a male, was critically injured and still inside the vehicle, police said.

Based on the initial investigation, police said they believe the driver of the Mustang was speeding eastbound when he lost control, drove onto the sidewalk, struck the pedestrian and then crashed into the tree.

The driver was transported to a hospital for his serious injuries.

Neither the pedestrian nor the driver have been identified as of Monday morning.

Investigators with the Federal Heights Police Department and the Thornton Police Traffic Division are investigating this crash.

No other details were available.

FEDERAL HEIGHTS, Colo. Its been three months since Miranda Conner, 30, was last seen.

Were just trying to find her and bring her home safe if we can if she's still alive, said Tabitha Spann, Conner's mom.

Conners children 11-year-old Zayden and 9-year-old Zyrah have been staying with their grandma at her home just outside of Phoenix since the Denver woman disappeared on February 3.

"They don't talk a lot about their mom being missing. Theyre doing good in school. They know we're actively looking for her and want her to come home safe, said Spann.

The Denver Police Department initially said Conner was last seen around 1 a.m. in the area of East 44th Avenue and Argonne Street in Green Valley Ranch. However, things have changed.

The Federal Heights Police Department took over the investigation in early March after it was discovered Conner was last seen in the area of 85th and Pecos.

Investigators say they're handling this case as a homicide based on the concerning nature of her disappearance and the amount of time she's been missing.

I believe something bad happened to her, said Spann, who believes someone knows something and can help crack this case. "We just want everyone to know just to tell us they know something even if it's anonymous to say something so that we can find her. It's been three months."

Spann says Conner has left before, but she's never gone a day without talking to her kids. She was planning on them to Disneyland in June.

Theres no way she would've missed out on that with the kids or not even talking to the kids. She was the type of person her kids were her lifeline, said the grandmother.

Spann says she wants answers so the family can have closure.

I feel like it's slow. I feel like Im not getting a lot of information. Not a lot of updates, she said.

The Dock Ellis Foundation, a national organization that represents families of missing loved ones in the minority community, has stepped in to help find Conner.

"We would like law enforcement, or whoever needs to be involved, the attorney general's office, whoever needs to be involved, CBI, maybe they could push it in the media that she's still missing. That would help, said Tanya Frazier, chief strategist officer with the Dock Ellis Foundation.

Miranda, we love you. Your kids love you. They miss you every day. And just know you have a supportive family here wanting you home and we miss you dearly, said Spann. Im not gonna give up until I find her, no matter what.

Anyone with information is asked to call Metro Denver Crime Stoppers at 720-913-7867. Tipsters can remain anonymous.

UPDATE: The missing 13-year-old has been found safe, according to CBI. The Endangered Missing Alert has been deactivated.

FEDERAL HEIGHTS, Colo. The Colorado Bureau of Investigation has issued an Endangered Missing Alert for a Federal Heights 13-year-old who may be in crisis.

The teen was last seen around 3:31 p.m. Tuesday walking eastbound across Huron Street north of 84th Avenue.

The teen is 5 feet 1 inch tall and 115 pounds with brown hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing blue jeans, a long sleeve black sweatshirt with a circular Wind Cave National Park logo, a turquoise backpack and dark-colored shoes. She may have a blue face mask on.

In the alert, CBI said the teen may be in crisis and authorities are concerned for her safety.

Anyone with information on the teen's whereabouts is asked to call 911 or the Federal Heights Police Department at 303-428-8538.

A woman in Federal Heights says she feels lucky to be alive after a man fired several shots into her apartment Wednesday night. She is accusing her apartment complex of inadequate maintenance and security that's made her feel continuously unsafe.

Kayla Santana said her front door has not properly locked since June, and she has felt vulnerable since, culminating in the shooting Wednesday.

Santana says she had been talking to a man on Tinder, who came to her apartment Wednesday evening. After he left, she noticed money missing out of her bag, and sent him a text message to confront him about it. He then came back up to her front door, pulled out a gun and started firing, Santana said.

He just started shooting, all that stuff. And I just didnt know what to do, she said. I just basically laid on the floor because I didnt know what else to do.

Several bullets penetrated her door and wall, even hitting the hot water tank in an interior closet. Santana dropped to the floor as the shots began, crawled to her bedroom and called police. All the while, she hoped that her attacker wouldnt try to open the front door, because she knew he could easily open it despite being locked.

Santana says she has been calling and writing management at the Tuscan Heights apartment complex since June, reporting the broken lock and deadbolt on her front door. She says she's found the door kicked in and belongings missing on prior occasions, and attempted to fix the lock with a friends help after her requests for service went unanswered.

Ive been telling them to fix the door. Ive messaged them on the online portal. I went to the front office. They said they were going to do it. They havent done it. They never fixed it at all, Santana said. They dont do nothing. Like literally, other peoples stuff gets robbed up here.

Calls from Denver7 to both the Tuscan Heights office and to corporate owner Greystars Denver office went unanswered, as did an email to Greystars corporate media relations team.

The Federal Heights Police Department confirmed it responded to the apartment complex Wednesday night and is looking for the suspect.

Santana says she will be moving into a new apartment complex at the beginning of February, and will spend the remaining time with friends where she will feel safer.

Im just trying to get out of here, for sure, she said. I just want to go already.

Editor's note:

FEDERAL HEIGHTS, Colo. Two teenagers were injured in a shooting at a party in Federal Heights over the weekend.

Federal Heights police officers responded to a call for shots being fired at a party at an apartment in the 1300 block of West 84th Avenue just after 2 a.m. Sunday morning, according to the Colorado Bureau of Investigation.

When officers arrived, they found a 17-year-old boy and a 19-year-old woman with gunshot wounds, the CBI said. Both had to be hospitalized, but their injuries were not considered life-threatening.

The CBI said some type of disturbance occurred at the party before the shootings, however, further details were not provided.

Investigators believe the person or people responsible left the scene and are still at large. There are no further details on potential suspects.

Anyone who has information on the shootings is asked to contact the Federal Heights Police Department at (303) 428-8833.

DENVER June Amend has been waiting for her furniture for weeks. The 91-year-old moved from Arkansas to Colorado on May 2.

"I just feel lost," said Amend. "It's just, it's horrible. It doesn't feel like home."

Her daughter, Gail Bolter, hired Alliance Moving and Storage to get her furniture from Amend's hometown to Denver. The proceeding 26 days have caused Amend, Bolter and their family headaches and frustrations as they try to find their mother's belongings.

"I'm tired of fighting with these companies," said Bolter. "They've made my life a living hell for the last two and a half weeks."

According to Bolter, the problems began the day the move started. Instead of movers from Alliance Moving and Storage showing up to Amend's residence in Arkansas, the company contracted with American Home Relocation.

She was required to pay the new moving company another fee to pick up her furniture. Since then, she has struggled to keep tabs on who has her furniture and where it is. According to an email from Alliance Moving and Storage, the company would professionally guide the customers through the process in "door-to-door service."

"There's been no professional guidance," said Bolter, who has spent more than $3,000 with both companies. "And there's been no door-to-door service because it's never ended up at the other door in my first month."

A Better Business Bureau Review of Alliance Moving and Storage shows similar complaints.

The company "lied to me many times with false guarantee of moving pickup dates," said one review.

"Poor customer service and lack of communication resulted in a very unsatisfactory experience," said another.

We reached out to Alliance for comment on Amend's belongings. A representative said the contract says the company has 30 days to deliver the furniture. Denver7 looked at their contract, however, and could not find such clause.

Amend has lived in a hotel for most of her month in Colorado. Her family was able to purchase her a bed for her mobile home but most of the home remains unfurnished. She has no idea when her belongings will finally arrive.

"You just don't do things like this to people," Amend said. "I would like to have my own stuff. I like to be more independent."

DENVER The COVID-19 testing site at Water World in Federal Heights will hold its last day of testing next Wednesday, March 24, after six months of operations, Adams County said Tuesday.

The site at Water World was one of the largest stood up in the state as the Pepsi Center site in Denver closed and the state started to put up more community-based testing sites across Colorado.

In the past six months, about 205,000 people have been tested there and clinicians administered up to 4,300 tests per day at one point.

Adams County said that people will be able to get tested through 7 p.m. next Wednesday, March 24, and that people who get tested next week will be able to get results in 2-4 days through a Luminate account with Mako.

We are so grateful for the partnership with the Governors Office, Federal Heights, and MAKO, said Eva J. Henry, Adams County Commissioner and Board Chair. This group quickly came together during a crisis and provided a critical service to our community, at no cost, and regardless of insurance status.

There are still testing options for people who need one in Adams County through health care providers or sites at Riverdale Regional Park in Brighton, Adams City High School in Commerce City, Crossroads Church in Northglenn, Fat Cats in Westminster and Westminster High School. Find more information on how to pre-register and hours of operation by clicking here.

As of Sunday, Adams Countys 7-day rolling average of daily cases was 79 and the 7-day average incidence rate per 100,000 people was 15.1.

FEDERAL HEIGHTS, Colo. The state and Adams County announced Monday afternoon they were opening another free COVID-19 testing site at Water World in Federal Heights, hours after a similar site was announced at the Aurora Sports Park.

County and state officials said that anyone will be able to get tested at the site free of charge and without a state ID, insurance or doctors recommendation including people who do not have symptoms. Test results will come back typically in 2-3, though could take up to four, Polis said.

Like the test site in Aurora, the Federal Heights site will have staffing, testing operations, logistics and lab work done by MAKO Medical out of North Carolina, with support from the state and county health departments.

While people are not required to pre-register to testing, they are strongly encouraged to do so by clicking here.

The site can test up to 2,500 people per day in nine testing lanes, but those numbers can only be achieved if most people pre-register, the county said.

The site will have options for speakers of English, Spanish, Farsi and Hmong, the officials said. Polis said he believes it is the first site in the nation to offer services in Hmong.

Having this testing site in Adams County increases access to free testing for thousands of our residents, many of whom do not currently have health insurance or easy access to a COVID test, said Adams County Commissioner and Board Chair, Emma Pinter. We are grateful to the State of Colorado and the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment for partnering on this important initiative.

After announcing the new site, Polis and Adams County commissioners were tested there, as Aurora Mayor Mike Coffman was during the morning event.

Click here for more testing on the Adams County testing, which will be open 7 days a week from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

FEDERAL HEIGHTS, Colo.  The sounds of splish-splashing will be silenced this summer at Water World in Federal Heights. The water park will remain closed for the upcoming 2020 summer season.

Water World made the announcement in a Tuesday news release, stating the closure is due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It's the first time in the park's 40-year history that it closed for a season.

We are deeply disappointed to have to make this decision, said park spokesperson, Joann Cortz, Water World is a summer institution in Colorado, and for many individuals and families, its just not summer without Water World.

The decision to remain closed for the 2020 season comes after staff sought guidance from waterpark industry experts, local authorities, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and the local health department.

The 70-acre water park attracts up to 500,000 visitors each year during their 90-day season. While there is no evidence that COVID-19 can be spread through the use of pool water, guidance indicates that a water park the size and scope of Water World would not be permitted to open within the parks short summer operating season, the release read.

Water World did create a guide for opening, but the unknown still exists in terms of official restrictions. Specifically, when and if large numbers of people might be permitted to gather this summer, the park said.

UPDATE (Wednesday, March 25, 10:30 a.m.): New stay-at-home orders in five Front Range counties were issued Wednesday morning. The orders go into effect for residents in Boulder, Jefferson, Adams, Arapahoe and Douglas Counties beginning Thursday at 8 a.m.

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DENVER Over 1.5 million people in Adams, Arapahoe and Douglas counties are expected to receive stay-at-home orders which will likely go into effect before weeks end.

The order, expected to be issued on Wednesday by the Tri-County Health Department (TCHD), was still being drafted as of Tuesday evening, according to Aurora Mayor Mike Coffman.

In a tweet, Coffman said the TCHD was still preparing the stay-at-home order, which he touted as being similar, but not identical, to the one Denver Mayor Michael Hancock issued for the city of Denver.

The Tri-County Health order would affect 26 municipalities in a 3,000-square-mile area.

Coffman said he expected the order to go into effect at 8 a.m. Thursday and last through April 17 a week later than Denvers.

These orders are part of a larger front-range effort to help stop the spread of COVID-19, said a Tri-County Health spokesperson in a prepared statement late Tuesday night.

The final order is expected to be available early Wednesday morning.

A remote press briefing will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday. Denver7 will bring you the latest as it develops.

FEDERAL HEIGHTS, Colo. -- After learning one of her straight A students was homeless, the principal for Pinnacle Charter Middle School reached out to the community for help and the response was overwhelming.

Its really heartbreaking to see how this need was created, but to see everybody rallying around her is a great thing, Dr. Kimberly Stalcup, the principal at Pinnacle Charter Middle School told Denver7.

HOW TO HELP: To give to the Contact7 Gives Fund and to Tammi Amack, click here.

Stalcup asked the student what she wanted for Christmas.

She hesitated quite a bit but we got her to tell us she really wanted school uniform clothes that fit her and she wanted a warm coat for her mom and some dog food for her dog, Stalcup said.

Donations have been pouring in to turn the holidays around for this eighth grader. Someone even gifted her a Kindle because she loves to read.

The girls mother, Tammi Amack, says she lost her job as a senior caregiver and since April they have been living out of their car.

She told Denver7 she looked everywhere for housing but nothing was available.

I was on the list in Denver and I started at 129 or 127 but now I am at 9, Amack said. I just found out yesterday I dont know what it is, its got to be God.

Amack said finding a job while homeless was difficult because she never has clean clothes. She is now working in the Denver Post warehouse and says her boss even helped her when her van broke down.

She says the generosity the community has shown them is nothing short of a Christmas miracle.

Thank you to everyone thats put us in your heart. I know my daughter is a special little girl but you have all really made her smile, Amack said.

Amack is praying they will find housing by Christmas.

Until then, Stalcup started a GoFundMe account to help them find a place to stay.

You can also donate through Contact7 gives by clicking on the drop down menu and choosing Help for Tammi Amack.

WESTMINSTER, Colo. The man shot and killed by police in Westminster last Friday night as he fled a crash was identified Tuesday by the Adams County Coroners Office.

Hunter Steven James Lowry, 23, was identified as the man killed by police. The coroners office said his cause and manner of death are under investigation.

Police said Lowry was suspected of robbing a store in Federal Heights at knifepoint around 8 p.m. last Friday. Officers tried to pull him over when he crashed at the intersection at 92nd Ave. and Federal Blvd. and fled the vehicle, police said.

Thornton and Westminster officers chased him, and Lowry was confronted at a nearby condo complex. Police said one officer used a Taser of Lowry and several officers fired their weapons, fatally striking Lowry.

Police said Lowry had a handgun in his possession at the time, but it was unclear if he fired any shots. Police said two Westminster officers, one Thornton officer and one Federal Heights officer fired their weapons at Lowry. It was unclear how many times he was struck.

Lowry had several driving-related court charges still pending, as well as criminal impersonation and drug charges.

The 17th Judicial District Critical Incident Investigation team is probing the shooting.

FEDERAL HEIGHTS, Colo. -- At 77 years old, Ginger Derrick did not think she would have to go back to work, just to pay the skyrocketing lot rent and utility bills from her mobile home park.

But now, she is working an overnight shift for UPS, just to make ends meet, after her recent water bill was seven times higher than the same billing period last year.

"It went from $6 on November 1st of 2018 to $42 this year with no explanation," she said, showing the bills from her mobile home park she carefully files away.

Contact7 first heard about issues with lot rent increasing at Holiday Hills mobile home park in Federal Heights this summer, when a large group of seniors came together to talk about their struggles to make ends me.

Meanwhile, new fees for "usage", "meter" and "efficiency" have also been added in the last year.

For some people, including 89-year-old Sherry Broderick, it has meant tough choices. She was hit with a $91 water bill in August (compared to an $18 bill in August of 2018.)

"What did it mean to me? That was part of my groceries for the rest of the month," said Broderick, who is now going to a food bank to supplement her groceries. "It was either pay the rent or buy groceries."

In a statement from the park's owners, Equity Lifestyle Properties, a spokeswoman said they are aware of "a particular resident" and are "working to address the matter."

The statement said: "Actions taken include documenting daily meter readings for the home to track usage and having our maintenance technician visit the home to look for plumbing leaks and running toilets. Next, we will be scheduling a licensed plumber to conduct an additional courtesy check for leaks."

However, Rep. Kyle Mullica, D-Northglenn, said this issue is far larger than one resident or even one mobile home park.

"There's no transparency, and we are trying to figure out how this is happening," said Mullica, who said town halls lately are filled with complaints from people concerned about arbitrary utility billing by mobile home parks, which may not be tied to how much the parks are charged by the city-owned utilities. "Why are my constituents being gouged on a public utility? And no one has been able to really give me that answer."

He said lawmakers are working on proposals for the next legislative session to beef up Colorado's Mobile Home Park Act, including requiring more transparency in utility billing and meter audits to make sure large companies that own mobile home parks aren't profiting from the most vulnerable.

Meanwhile, Derrick said she is working five nights a week to make ends meet and hoping someone will stop the skyrocketing utilities and lot rent that may force her out of her home.

"They want to force us out, so we have to leave them the homes for a low price, and they can sell them for more," she said. "I just pray a lot. I just think things will change."

DENVER A former Westminster police officer who received a 90-day jail sentence last November after he pleaded guilty to unlawful sexual contact with a woman while he was on duty in August 2017 and official misconduct had been charged by the U.S. Attorneys Office for Colorado with a civil rights violation and faces up to 10 years in federal prison if he is convicted.

Curtis Lee Arganbrights 90-day sentence drew outrage when it was announced last year. He had originally been charged with sexually assault his 36-year-old victim but later pleaded guilty to the two misdemeanor counts.

The U.S. Attorneys Office said in July the FBI was investigating Arganbright and that the FBI wanted to search evidence lockers at the Denver branch for items confiscated from Arganbright after the August 2017 assault.

An affidavit obtained at the time of his arrest in Westminster stated Arganbright had agreed to give a 36-year-old woman a ride home from St. Anthony Hospital in Westminster. The affidavit for his arrest says the woman had checked herself into the hospital the night before for treatment related to alcoholism.

At some point on the way back to her home in Broomfield, however, he allegedly made advances toward her, then pulled off the road near W. 144th Ave. and Zuni Street and forced the woman to engage in sex acts, the district attorneys office said.

Investigators found DNA evidence on the victim, the affidavit says, and on the side of Arganbrights patrol vehicle.

He was suspended without pay during an investigation into the incident and resigned about two months after the allegations came to light.

Arganbright was charged in the U.S. District Court of Colorado and made a court appearance in Denver on Monday in which he waived his right to indictment, the U.S. Attorneys Office said. He is charged with violating the womans civil rights by raping her while she was in police custody.

According to a release from the office, Arganbright faces up to 10 years in federal prison if he is convicted.

FEDERAL HEIGHTS, Colo. -- Students at Pinnacle Charter School received an intensive active shooter training course that's the first of its kind in Colorado.

"I think it's good but also sad that we have to learn this just because of society and how crazy it is," 7th grader Luis Marquez said.

This is no lockdown drill.

Students learn how to barricade the classroom door, perform CPR, as well as self-defense. In one simulation, teachers take down the active shooter and the students are taught how to hold the suspect down.

"No one wants to be a victim anymore, so again, leaving people in the dark not allowing them to be aggressive or pick the appropriate response is the new trend," Joe Deedon, owner of Tac*One said.

Tac*One Consulting, a firm that started in 2007 by teaching law enforcement active shooter training, is instructing students at this K-12 school.

Deedon says the training is specialized for each age group.

The training also explains to students what happens to the brain in an active shooter situation and the fight or flight response.

"You don't want to freak them out and stress them out too much, but you want it to be realistic so that they can learn," Deedon said.

Luis found the training valuable but admits he doesn't think he is capable of stopping a shooter.

"No, I get very nervous when something bad happens," Luis said.

Deedon explained it's okay to know your limitations because everyone has a role in prevention and response. He said their biggest goal is to give students the confidence to make decisions to save lives.

"Everybody's little something adds up to a big something for the campus," Deedon said. "They will know what they are capable of after today. Eeven with the adults everybody wants to think they will jump into action and rise to the occasion, but realistically they wont know until they were put in that moment."

Tac*One Consulting has taught this course to students in Wyoming and Arizona. This was the first time they have trained students in Colorado.

BRIGHTON, Colo. Life is so different now. I feel so much better, prosecutors say Dayna Jennings texted to a friend 11 days after she poisoned her 69-year-old father and buried him in the crawl space of the Federal Heights home they shared.

Jennings, 45, was convicted Monday of first-degree murder and tampering with a deceased human body in the death of her father, William Mussack.

Mussack's decomposing body was found in the basement of the home at 10022 Eliot Circle on January 10, 2018 by police and Colorado Bureau of Investigation officers executing a search warrant on the residence. His body was covered in debris and a layer of concrete.

An autopsy showed that Mussack had been poisoned by the animal tranquilizer acepromazine, a central nervous system depressant that slows respiration.

According to the affidavit, the last known contact Mussack had with anyone was on December 9, 2017. Police had made repeated efforts to do a welfare check on Mussack after relatives became concerned that they hadnt been able to contact him.

The affidavit also shows that Jennings rented two dumpsters later that month and purchased bags of concrete from Home Depot, all the while maxing out her fathers credit card.

Police noted Jennings had ripped out flooring and carpet from the homes basement and placed the debris in the dumpsters, which were removed days later.

Another disturbing entry in the affidavit details an episode where Mussack told his son in a text message he felt drugged after receiving a back rub from Jennings on Dec. 7. He told his son he fell asleep for 15 hours in a recliner shortly after the encounter. He ceased communicating with anyone days after, the document details.

Sentencing is set for August 19. She is facing life imprisonment.

FEDERAL HEIGHTS, Colo. -- Many who planned out living out their golden years in Our Colorado now feel they're being forced out, especially in our mobile home communities.

"I like being outside, especially in the summer," said Ginger Derrick, who at 76 years old, said her gardening hobby helps keep her going, even when she is worried she is about to lose her home as lot rents go up, again. "When I moved in, it was $523 and now it's into the 800s. My income is $945 a month from social security. That's all I get."

Her little garden is a microcosm of the struggle all over Holiday Hills mobile home park in Federal Heights.

"Where does it end?" asked neighbor Rick Mazur, speaking about the rent increases. "It's gotten to the point now I can't afford my medications."

Several seniors gathered on a front porch Thursday evening to share their stories of trying to make ends meet on a fixed income with skyrocketing pad rent.

"They're just pricing us out," said one neighbor, upset because younger people are now being allowed to buy in the park. "I suspect they want to let younger people take over and force us out."

Not only are the rents going up, several neighbors said upkeep is going down, and there is little recourse.

The Mayor of Federal Heights, Daniel Dick and his wife, Dorcus White, said they are considering leaving when his term is up.

"They don't do the repairs. The streets are terrible," said Dick. "Thing is, I've been told the rent is going to go up even more next year."

If that happens, many said, they can't afford to stay.

"And if one of us dies, we can't live here," said White. "We can only afford it because we have two social securities."

A recently-passed Colorado law does give new protections for mobile home residents, such as dispute resolution.

However, The Mobile Home Park Act Dispute Resolution and Enforcement Program, which is under the Department of Local Affair's Division of Housing, will not go into effect until May 1, 2020.

Next session, Rep. Edie Hooton, D-Boulder, said more protections are coming, including how often lot rents can be raised and by how much.

"We have to protect these homeowners," said Hooton.

Until then, at Holiday Hills, a property manager said she couldn't talk to the media, and Denver7 received no response from the owner, real estate mogul Sam Zell's Equity Lifestyle Properties (ELS).

"My home, I paid for cash. This is the land, it's corporate," said Derrick. "And they don't seem to care about the people. They just want the money."

Derrick is a breast cancer and heart attack survivor, and she plans to fight again to keep her home and her garden, but she just doesn't know how yet.

"Pray," she said with a laugh. "All I can do is pray."

FEDERAL HEIGHTS, Colo. A holiday attraction that was expected to light up the Water World parking lot this winter postponed its grand opening by at least one week due to damaging wind gusts that hit the Front Range Saturday evening.

Christmas in Color was set to open Friday, but damaging winds on both Friday and Saturday forced plans to come to a halt until further notice, according to Melissa Smuzynski, a media relations spokeswoman for Christmas in Color.

We were set up and read for our grand opening. Unfortunately, Mother Nature had different plans, said Christmas in Colorado CEO Todd Glover in a statement sent to Denver7.

The winds on Friday caused damage to numerous lighting elements and displays at the drive-through holiday lights display, said Smuzynksi, who added that crews worked for two days to replace broken light bulbs and mangled lighting elements.

But a second round of winds Saturday night left behind colossal damage that will take up to a week to repair, she said.

If youve purchased a ticket for this weekend, Water World officials say you should have received an email giving you the opportunity to either reschedule your visit or receive a refund.

WESTMINSTER, Colo. Firefighters from several different jurisdictions battled a large fire at an abandoned RV sales lot and repair building well into the early hours of the evening in Westminster Thursday afternoon.

The fire was reported around 2:30 p.m. Thursday near the RTD station in Westminster. A Westminster Fire official confirmed the building that was on fire was an unoccupied RV sales lot and repair shop near 70th Ave. and Federal Blvd., adding that no one was inside at the time the blaze broke out. 

Witnesses from across the metro area reported a large plume of black smoke as the fire started that could be seen from as far as Parker. Video from the scene showed the efforts to put out the falmes were ongoing at 3 p.m.

Just after 3:30 p.m., Westminster Fire said crews were fighting the fire from a distance because the building was "showing signs of instability." The department said it had not been able to confirm early reports of an explosion.

71st and Federal fire: Initial reports of an explosion prior to this fire have not been confirmed. Crews are fighting fire from a distance as the building is showing signs of instability. pic.twitter.com/rnm2DWTDod

Federal Boulevard was closed in both directions at 70th Ave. so firefighters could work, CDOT said.

Twenty-one units comprising between 60 to 70 firefighters were still fighting the fire just before 5 p.m. including crews from Westminster, Adams County, Federal Heights, Denver and Arvada.  

FEDERAL HEIGHTS, Colo. A woman went missing in July after walking home from a family gathering and police are asking for help finding her.

On July 10, Rosio Flores attended a family gathering at Camenisch Park in Federal Heights. Around 8 p.m. she told her family she was going to walk the half-mile back to her home, which is on the 8600 block of Zuni Street.

Flores has not been seen or heard from since.

The Westminster Police Department is asking for the publics help locating Flores. In a Facebook post, the department explained why they had posted the information more than a month after her disappearance: The family waited for a couple of weeks before reporting her missing to us, the post reads. We then had to wait some additional time to get pictures from the family. We actually only received the report about a week ago.

Westminster spokeswoman Cheri Spottke said police don't suspect foul play at this time.

Flores is described as a Hispanic female standing at 5 feet, 3 inches and 110 pounds. She has brown hair and brown eyes, and numerous tattoos.

Anybody with information on her whereabouts is encouraged to call Westminster Det. Luis Lpez at 303-658-4244, referencing case number 2018-13256. 

Many communities around Colorado have canceled their Independence day fireworks displays due to high fire danger this year but we've rounded up a list of where you can still see a good show for the 4th of July.

Below is a list of the fireworks shows we're aware of (including those that are canceled), sorted alphabetically:

ADAMS COUNTY -- Tuesday, July 3

See Brighton below.

ALAMOSA Wednesday, July 4 (no fireworks)

There will be an Independence Day Celebration with the Kiwanis pancake breakfast and a Main Street parade. This years theme is Indpendence Day the Valley Way. But there will be no fireworks this year.

ARVADA Wednesday, July 4

Arvada will only host a fireworks show this year, saying that organizing an all-day event has become increasingly difficult in recent years due to volunteer and city staffing numbers. Gates open to vehicles at 7 p.m. and fireworks start around 9 p.m. at the Stenger Sports Complex (W. 58th Ave. and Oak St.)

ASPEN Wednesday, July 4 

Rather than fireworks, Aspen will this year host a drone light show, in which dozens of drones dance across the sky choreographed to music. The drone light show starts at 9:15 p.m. at Wagner Park and will be followed by a performance by the band Thievery Corporation at Belly Up. The rest of the day beforehand will be filled with other family events. Last years fireworks were canceled because of fire restrictions.

AURORA Wednesday, July 4

The city will host its Fourth of July Spectacular from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. on July 4. There will be musical entertainment from Narrow Gauge and Syndicate from 6 to 9:30, which will be followed by the fireworks show at 9:30. Its the only place you can watch fireworks in Aurora, as they are banned in the rest of the city.

AVON Tuesday, July 3 (no fireworks)

Update: Avon had canceled its fireworks display.

Avons Salute to the USA celebration is sponsored by Alpine Bank and will run from 5 p.m. until about 10 p.m. There will be a host of family-friendly events and food, as well as live music from the Dearling Band and Arapahoe Philharmonic.

BEAVER CREEK Wednesday, July 4 (no fireworks)

Update: Beaver Creek has canceled its fireworks show.

There will be free slides, bounce houses and a kids zone that run through the afternoon, starting at noon. There will also be food and drinks in Centennial Park.

BENNETT - (no fireworks)

There are no fireworks events scheduled in Bennett this year. There is an open burning ban in effect for the town, however, so dont light any of your own. Town offices are closed on July 4.

BLACK HAWK Wednesday, July 4

Black Hawk will host its Boom Town fireworks special that the city touts as the largest display in Colorado. The city says that weather and restrictions permitting, the display will start at 9:30 p.m.

BOULDER - Wednesday, July 4

There are a host of July 4 events scheduled in Boulder this year, including the 5/10K Craig Towler Freedom Run, 4th on Pearl, Chautauquas 120th birthday, and a fireworks display at Folsom Field that will begin at dark. Doors for fireworks open at 8 p.m.

BRECKENRIDGE Wednesday, July 4 (no fireworks)

The town of Breckenridge has already canceled its fireworks display this year because of dry conditions and a dry forecast. Fireworks are prohibited in town limits as well. But the 10K trail run, mountain bike race and parade are still scheduled to take place, with other family events as well.

BRIGHTON Tuesday, July 3 and Wednesday, July 4

The Stars & Stripes Independence Day celebration at Riverdale Regional Park takes place on July 3 from 4 to 10 p.m. with fireworks scheduled for 9:30 p.m.

Brightons Fourth of July Community Celebration will take place from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. on July 4 at Carmichael Park, just behind Brighton City Hall. There will be free activities for kids, food, music and more. Fireworks will begin at dark.

BROOMFIELD Wednesday, July 4

Activities begin around 5 p.m. at Broomfield County Commons Park with activities for children, a beer garden and live music. The fireworks display is set to begin at 9:30 p.m., weather and fire bans permitting.

BRUSH July 2, 3 and 4

The Brush rodeo kicks off on Monday with barbecue and a beer garden, along with other rodeo activities. The same schedule is set for Tuesday, July 3. Independence Day will start with a pancake breakfast, a parade, and the day will include a water fight, a museum open house, more rodeo displays and a 9:30 p.m. firework display.

BUENA VISTA Wednesday, July 4 (no fireworks)

There will be a community parade, a craft show, a 5K run, pancake breakfast, pie sale and more but the fireworks display has been canceled due to Stage II fire restrictions, according to Town Administrator Phillip Puckett.

BYERS Wednesday, July 4

There will be a spaghetti dinner fundraiser for the fire protection district from 5 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, July 3. On the Fourth of July, the day will kick off with a pancake breakfast, following by a parade, street far and other events. A rodeo will take place starting at 4 p.m., which will be followed by fireworks if there is no fire ban in place.

CANON CITY (no fireworks)

The city council postponed this years fireworks display because of fire restrictions and drought conditions, according to the Canon City Daily Record. 

CASTLE ROCK Wednesday, July 4 (no fireworks)

Fireworks were canceled as of June 28. They had been scheduled to be set off from the butte above Red Hawk Ridge Golf Course. If conditions are ripe for wildfires, the fire department could choose to cancel the display. Fireworks are currently banned for personal use due to fire restrictions.

COLORADO SPRINGS Wednesday, July 4

Independence Day activities at Memorial Park start at 5:30 p.m. and the Colorado Springs Philharmonic will perform at 7:30 with a fireworks show at dusk.

COMMERCE CITY Wednesday, July 4

Commerce City boasts what it calls the largest public fireworks display in the state. The free 4thFest celebration takes place on the south side of Dicks Sporting Goods Park starting at 5 p.m. At 7 p.m., the Colorado Rapids take on the Seattle Sounders and fireworks will follow the match at about 9:30 p.m.

CREEDE Wednesday, July 4 (no fireworks)

Creedes fireworks show is canceled this year due to fire danger but all of the other 4th of July activities, including the parade and mining competitions, will go on as scheduled.

CRESTED BUTTE Wednesday, July 4 (no fireworks)

Crested Buttes fireworks show is canceled due to fire danger, so a concert will take place instead. The days festivities kick off with a pancake breakfast at the Crested Butte Fire and EMS Department. 

CRIPPLE CREEK Wednesday, July 4 (no fireworks)

Update: Cripple Creek has canceled its fireworks show.

Cripple Creeks 4th of July celebration kicks off with live music at noon and continuing all day.

DACONO multiple dates

The Colorado Speedway in Dacono has fireworks shows planned on three nights: Saturday, June 30; Friday, July 6 and Saturday, July 7.

DENVER (multiple)

Tuesday, July 3: Independence Eve fireworks at Civic Center Park The annual 4th of July celebration at Civic Center Park will include music, a light show and fireworks over the City and County Building, with events scheduled to begin at 8 p.m.

Tuesday, July 3 and Wednesday, July 4: Colorado Rockies vs. San Francisco Giants The Rockies are hosting the San Francisco Giants at Coors Field on Tuesday and Wednesday at 6:10 p.m. with fireworks to follow.

Wednesday, July 4: Fireworks at Elitch Gardens

Once Elitch Gardens closes on the 4th, the fireworks will begin. Admission is free with park admission or a season pass.

Wednesday, July 4: Denver Outlaws vs. Boston Cannons Enjoy a fireworks show after the Denver Outlaws-Boston Cannons game at Broncos Stadium at Mile High. The game starts at 7 p.m.

DURANGO Wednesday, July 4 (no fireworks)

Durangos fireworks show is canceled this year but events are scheduled all day long, starting with breakfast at 7:30 a.m.

EAGLE/GYPSUM Wednesday, July 4 (no fireworks)

Update: Eagle/Gypsum have canceled their fireworks show

Head to Gypsum for the 4th of July celebration, which is scheduled to run from 7 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at Gypsums Lundgren Theater.

ENGLEWOOD Wednesday, July 4

Englewoods 4th of July celebration kicks off at 3 p.m. at Cornerstone and Belleview parks. Fireworks are scheduled for 9:30 p.m.

ERIE Tuesday, July 3

Want to get started on your Independence Day celebrations a day early? The 3rd of July Extravaganza in Erie kicks off at 5 p.m. Tuesday at Colorado National Golf Club. The fireworks show will take place after dark.

ESTES PARK Wednesday, July 4

Take in the fireworks over Lake Estes at 9:30 p.m. on the 4th of July. Theres also a full schedule of events throughout the day.

FAIRPLAY Wednesday, July 4 (no fireworks)

This years fireworks show is canceled but all the rest of the days events will go on as scheduled.

FIRESTONE Wednesday, July 4

The 4th at Firestone celebration at Miners Park is set to begin at 10 a.m. with fireworks scheduled for 9:30 p.m.

FLORENCE Wednesday, July 4

Update: Florence has postponed ts fireworks show.

The town of Florence will wrap up several days of festivities .

FORT CARSON June 29 to July 1

Fort Carson is pulling out all the stops for three days of celebrations with a fireworks show happening on the last night, July 1, at 9:30 p.m. 

FORT COLLINS Wednesday, July 4

Come down to Fort Collins for a day of music, fun, fireworks and patriotism! The city kicks off the Independence Day celebration with their FireKracker 5K at 7:30 a.m., followed by their annual 4th of July Parade on Mountain Avenue starting at 10 a.m. Enjoy live music at City Park starting at 4:15 p.m. and stay for the incredible fireworks show which is set to begin at around 9:35 p.m.

FORT LUPTON Wednesday, July 4

The City of Fort Lupton begins their 2018 Independence Day celebration with a pancake breakfast at 8 a.m. sharp. There will also be a petting zoo, a magic show, face painting, train ride, food, vendors, a beer garden, BBQ, a veterans tribute, live music (starting at 7:30 p.m.) with festivities culminating with a firework show at dusk.

FRISCO Wednesday, July 4 (no fireworks)

There are no fireworks in Frisco this year but if you are looking for an Independence Day celebration in a quintessential small mountain town, then Friscos Fabulous 4th of July will fit the bill. Start the celebration with a pancake breakfast, followed by a kids bike decorating contest, music, a block party and free fishing derby for the kids. 

GEORGETOWN Wednesday, July 4 (no fireworks)

Though the fireworks show is canceled this year, the Town of Georgetown will begin their Independence Day festivities with a 5K run at 8 a.m., followed by a parade at 11 a.m. But thats not all: The annual BBQ will continue the party at City Park, and there will also be a beer garden, live music by Bottle Rocket Hurricane. 

GLENDALE Monday, July 2 

The City of Glendale will celebrate the 4th of July a bit early, with a firework show planned for Monday, July 2. The firework show will go off from Creekside Park at dusk (at around 9:15 p.m.) There will be several street closures starting at about 7:30 p.m.

GOLDEN Wednesday, July 4

Celebrate Independence Day in Golden with activities starting at noon. If weather permits, the day will end with a large firework display at Lions Park on 10th Street.

GRANBY Wednesday, July 4

Granby has a full line up of events planned for Independence Day including a pancake breakfast at the Emily Warner Aviation Museum, the Granby Fourth of July Parade on Main Street, BBQ at Polhamus Park, live entertainment, kids games, dunk tank and much more.

Fireworks follow the annual rodeo which begins at 7 p.m. at Heels Arena, off US 40.

GRAND JUNCTION Wednesday, July 4

Independence Day fireworks will take place after the GJ Rockies game vs. Ogden on July 4. Buy a ticket and see the fireworks from inside the stadium or watch from Lincoln Park.

GRAND LAKE Wednesday, July 4 (no fireworks)

Update: Grand Lake has canceled its fireworks show.

The July 4th celebrations at Grand Lake start with a pancake breakfast at the Grand Lake Townhall building. Call (970) 627-3402 for a start time. 

GREELEY Wednesday, July 4

The Greeley Stampede starts Independence Day with an Independence Day Parade, which runs along historic 10th Avenue starting at the University of Northern Colorado campus at 19th Street and ending on 5th Street beyond historic Lincoln Park. A large 4th of July firework display starting at approximately 9:30 p.m. will follow. The displays will be shot over the north west corner of Island Grove Park. Catch great views from anywhere in Island Grove Park.

GREENWOOD VILLAGE Wednesday, July 4

Fiddler's Green will host a firework display on July 4 after a Colorado Symphony concert. Check here fortickets and information.

GUNNISON Wednesday, July 4

Independence Day festivities begin at 8 a.m. with a 5K Run (and a 1K run for the kids), followed by games, music and dance performances at Main Street and Virginia. The celebration will continue from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Jorgenson Park with a food court, beer garden and a fireworks display at 9:30 p.m.

HIGHLANDS RANCH Wednesday, July 4

The Fourth of July celebrations and fireworks at Highlands Ranch returns to Highland Heritage Regional Park. The celebration will start at 4:00 p.m. and conclude with the fireworks show at 9:30 p.m.

HOLYOKE Wednesday, July 4

The Holyoke Volunteer Fire Department Fireworks will be held at Holyoke City Park on July 4.

IDAHO SPRINGS Wednesday, July 4 (no fireworks)

Independence Day celebrations in Idaho Springs begin with the Tom Hayden Memorial 5K Run/Walk. The town will also be hosting an afternoon complete with live music and dancing in downtown at Citizens Park. There will also be delicious BBQ for you to enjoy! 

NOTE: The city announced it had to cancel their fireworks display due to fire danger. The show will be rescheduled for the Saturday after Thanksgiving. 

INDIAN HILLS Tuesday, July 3, and Wednesday, July 4 (no fireworks)

The Fourth of July 2018 schedule of events, hosted by Indian Hills Fire Rescue, does not include fireworks. 

KEYSTONE Tuesday, July 3 (no fireworks)

Update: Keystone has canceled their fireworks.

Celebrate America with a day of family fun. Enjoy bounce houses, face painting, an outdoor BBQ and activities on Keystone Lake. 8 a.m. 10 p.m. 

KIOWA (no fireworks)

The fireworks show has been canceled. 

KREMMLING  Wednesday, July 4

Kremmlings Fire Up The Cliffs event starts at 2 p.m. in Town Square, and features BBQ, baked goods, live music, and events for children. Fireworks will begin after dark.

LAFAYETTE Wednesday, July 4

Celebrate 4th of July at Waneka Lake Park starting at 4 p.m. on Wednesday. Grab some grub from food truck vendors; beer or cider and wine from Stem Ciders and Wine. There will be a bounce house and face-painting for the kids, and a live band all afternoon. Free fireworks begin at dusk. 

LARKSPUR

Perry Park County Club will not be having a fireworks display this year.

LA JUNTA Wednesday, July 4

The Old Fashioned Fourth of July runs from 1:30 4:15 p.m. at Bents Old Fort.

The fireworks show has been canceled. 

LEADVILLE  Wednesday, July 4

Update: Leadville has canceled its fireworks show.

North Americas highest-elevation town marks July 4th with a Firecracker 5k Run, a rousing parade, a community  and cookout at the Leadville Airport, set against the silhouette of the highest peaks in the Colorado Rockies. 

LIMON Saturday, July 7

July 7 is this year's July celebration date. Huge Fireworks show, BBQ, Band, and lots of family fun! 

LITTLETON Wednesday, July 4

There will be family-friendly events beginning at 3 p.m. at Cornerstone and Belleview parks. Food will be available, as well as plenty of activities for the kids. Free fireworks begin after dark at Cornerstone Park, located at 5150 S. Windermere St. in Littleton. 

LONE TREE Wednesday, July 4

Events at Sweetwater Park begin at 4 p.m., but youll need to buy a wristband to get in. Theyre available to Lone Tree and Acres Green residents for free for up to four. Up to four additional wristbands can be bought for $5 apiece. Youll need an ID or proof of residency to pick them up, and supplies are limited. There will be a kids bike parade, an artist corner, obstacle course, water slide and plenty of other activities, as well as live music and food. Fireworks start at 9:15 p.m.

LONGMONT Wednesday, July 4

The free Longmont 4th of July fireworks display starts at 9:30 p.m. at the Boulder County Fairgrounds. The show is free, but there wont be parking at the fairgrounds. The city advises people to park at nearby shopping centers and to walk to the fenced-in area in front of Jack Murphy or anywhere else nearby. Handicapped parking will be available at the south entrance of the fairgrounds, and KGUD 90.7 will sync their music up with the fireworks display for added effect.

LOUISVILLE Wednesday, July 4

The 4th of July fireworks display will be held at the Coal Creek Golf Course from 6-10 p.m. However, there's no parking at the golf course. Get shuttle and event information here.

LOVELAND Wednesday, July 4

The annual Independence Day celebration at North Lake Park, 2626 N. Taft Ave., will feature entertainment throughout the day and a fireworks display at night, to celebrate the Fourth of July. For more information, click here.

MANITOU SPRINGS (no fireworks)

Due to high fire danger, the City of Manitou Springs has canceled its fireworks display.

MONTROSE Wednesday, July 4

This year's fireworks will be viewable at 8:30 p.m., or later depending on darkfall, at the Clifford E. Baldridge Regional Park complex and a number of locations along south Townsend. 

MONUMENT Wednesday, July 4 (no fireworks)

The fireworks show is canceled this year but live music will kick off the evening at 7 p.m. at Palmer Lake in Monument on Independence Day.

MORRISON (no fireworks)

Morrison will not be holding fireworks celebrations this year. 

NEDERLAND - Wednesday, July 4 (no fireworks)

The town of Nederland will hold a 4th of July parade on Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. The parade will begin on Snyder Street and E. 2nd Street at Tin Shed Sports and Salto Coffee Works. Nederland will not hold fireworks celebrations this year. 

NORTHGLENN - Wednesday, July 4

A day-long festival will return to Northglenn on Wednesday for the July 4th Festival, which starts at 7 a.m. and runs until 10 a.m. at the E.B. Rains Jr. Memorial Park, located at 11800 Community Center Drive. Families can bring picnics and blankets for the annual fireworks program. The day starts with a pancake breakfast and ends with fireworks at 9 p.m. For a full list of activities, click here.

OURAY - Wednesday, July 4 (no fireworks)

Tucked in the mountains in southwest Colorado, Ouray welcomes visitors near and far to its old-fashioned Fourth of July celebration. The morning kicks off with a pancake breakfast at 7 a.m. in the Ouray Community Center, before diving into a 10K Race for Ouray Schools, a street parade at 10 a.m., games, live music and more. The 2018 firework show is canceled due to the fire hazards in the area. For a full list of activities, click here. 

PARKER - Wednesday, July 4

The town of Parker will hold its Stars and Stripes Celebration on Wednesday at Salisbury Park, located at 12010 S. Motsenbocker Road. Families can bring a blanket and lawn chair for an evening packed with family fun. This year, seating is allowed on the Parker Parks and Recreation ball fields. Live music starts at 6 p.m. and a fireworks display begins at 9:30 p.m. Events run from 6-10 p.m. For a schedule of the days events and details on parking, click here.

PUEBLO - Wednesday, July 4

Rollin on the Riverwalk will return for the 15th time Wednesday. Families can bring lawn chairs out to the AMR Confluence Plaza at 101 Union Ave. to enjoy the fireworks show. Food and retail vendors will be on-site. Gates open at 5 p.m. and the fireworks begin at 9 p.m. General admission tickets are $3 per person and premium seating is $15 per person. For information on tickets, click here. 

RIFLE - Tuesday, July 3 (no fireworks)

The city of Rifle will hold festivities for Independence Day on July 3 at Centennial Park, located at 300 W. 5th St. Due to fire danger, the city has canceled the annual fireworks show. There are still various free activities for all ages, including a patriotic concert and an open playground. For more information, click here. 

SILVERTHORNE - Wednesday, July 4 (no fireworks)

The Lake Dillon Theatre Company and the National Repertory Orchestra will perform to Rainbow Park in Silverthorne on Wednesday. This annual celebration includes a free, patriotic concert from the orchestra with a special performance featuring the theatre company. A community celebration will start after the concert. Guests can place their chairs in the park starting at 6 a.m. Wednesday. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Click here for more details.

SILVERTON - Wednesday, July 4 (no fireworks)

Silvertons annual Fourth of July event is known in the area for its old-fashioned family fun. The Kendall Mountain Recreation Area will be open for camping through the holiday and is within walking distance of downtown festivities, like the parade and carnival in Memorial Park. The firework show was postponed due to fire risk. For more information, click here. 

SIMLA (no fireworks)

Simla has canceled the Fourth of July fireworks show due to fire risk.

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS - June 30 through July 4 (no fireworks)

Steamboat Springs will hold its annual Fourth of July celebration starting June 30 through July 4 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. each day. For more than 100 years, the city has celebrated Independence Day in true western fashion. The weekend will include a rodeo series, summer ski competition, farmers market, live music and more. The fireworks show is canceled, but there will be a laser light show at Howelsen Hill instead. For a full list of events, click here. 

STERLING - Wednesday, July 4

Sterling will bring the Heritage Festival back at the Overland Trail Museum at 110 Overland Trail Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Families are invited to enjoy a day full of local history and fun. There is free admission all day. A free fireworks show will be held at Pioneer Park on the west side of town at dusk. For more information, click here. 

TELLURIDE - Wednesday, July 4 (no fireworks)

Telluride invites visitors and residents alike to participate in the Telluride Foundations Rundola, a recreational race to benefit the foundation. Participants begin at the base of the gondola and finish at the top. A parade and firemens BBQ will follow. The fireworks show has been canceled due to fire danger. Instead, guests can enjoy the Electrolier light show in Heritage Plaza. Learn more about the celebrations here. 

THORNTON - Wednesday, July 4

Thorton will holds its 4th of July celebration Wednesday, starting at 4 p.m. at Carpenter Park Fields, located at 3498 E. 112th Ave. The event will include food vendors, a beer garden, live entertainment, parachutists and fireworks at dusk. Festivities run from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Click here for more information.

VAIL - Wednesday, July 4 (no fireworks)

Vail America Days returns Wednesday for the towns annual Fourth of July celebration. Events, including an orchestra performance, a market and art show and more, will kick off the days leading up to July 4. Independence Day will feature a pancake breakfast, bake sale, parade and more. Fireworks were canceled Friday afternoon. For a full list of events, click here. 

WELLINGTON - Wednesday, July 4

The town of Wellington and Wellington Community Activities Commission invites visitors to participate in this years Wellington 4th of July Celebration. A Family Fun Fest will begin at 10 a.m. in Centennial Park and will include vendors, food, music, inflatables, a pancake breakfast, parade and a fireworks show at dusk. Families should bring their own lawn chairs and blankets. Follow the CAC Wellingtons Facebook page for updates.

WESTCLIFF - Wednesday, July 4

Westcliffe invites family to make a weekend out of its Fourth of July celebration Wednesday. Guests can enjoy a breakfast in the morning, followed by a parade down main street at 10 a.m. and fireworks over Lake DeWeese at 9 p.m. For more information, click here.

WESTMINSTER - Wednesday, July 4

The city of Westminster will hold its Uncle Sams Splash Bash from 1-3 p.m. on Wednesday at Countryside Outdoor Pool, located at 10470 Oak St. in Broomfield. The city will also hold its annual Fourth of July celebration at City Park, 10455 N. Sheridan Boulevard. The event will include various activities, food vendors, a beer garden and performances starting at 4 p.m. The concert starts at 7 p.m. and fireworks will go off at 9:15 p.m. For information regarding a free shuttle and more, click here. 

WHEAT RIDGE - Wednesday, July 4 (no fireworks)

Anderson Park in Wheat Ridge will hold two concerts for its weekly Performances in the Park on Wednesday Bradley Weaver will perform from 10-10:45 a.m. and Papa Juke Band will take the stage from 6:30-8 p.m. While there are no citywide fireworks this year, the annual Carnation Festival in plans to have fireworks on Aug. 10 and 11. 

WINTER PARK - Wednesday, July 4 (no live fireworks)

Hideaway Park in downtown Winter Park will host an Independence Day celebration complete with free inflatables, face painters, carnival games, and live music. A fireworks display (in lieu of a live fireworks display, the show will be on a jumbo video screen) will begin at 10 p.m. For more information, visit click here.