<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<rss xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" version="2.0">
  <channel>
    <title>Local</title>
    <link>https://www.denver7.com/news/local-news</link>
    <description>Local</description>
    <copyright>Copyright Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.</copyright>
    <lastBuildDate>Thu, 14 May 2026 18:12:00 GMT</lastBuildDate>
    <atom:link href="https://www.denver7.com/news/local-news.rss" type="application/rss+xml" rel="self" />
    <item>
      <title>7 best things to do in Colorado this weekend: May 15-17, 2026</title>
      <link>https://www.denver7.com/7things/7-best-things-to-do-in-colorado-this-weekend-may-15-17-2026</link>
      <description>Every weekend, Denver7 compiles a list of some fun events you might enjoy. Here are our picks for the 7 best things to do in the Denver metro area and beyond this weekend.</description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2026 18:12:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>Óscar Contreras</author>
      <guid>https://www.denver7.com/7things/7-best-things-to-do-in-colorado-this-weekend-may-15-17-2026</guid>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<html lang="en">    <head>        <meta charset="utf-8">        <meta property="op:markup_version" content="v1.0">                    <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.denver7.com/7things/7-best-things-to-do-in-colorado-this-weekend-may-15-17-2026">                <meta property="fb:article_style" content="default">    </head>            <p>DENVER  Every weekend, Denver7 compiles a list of some fun events you might enjoy. Here are our picks for the 7 best things to do in the Denver metro area and beyond this weekend. Have a fun event youd like to showcase? Send an email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:thingstodo@denver7.com" target="_blank">thingstodo@denver7.com</a>.</p><p><b>1.</b> <b>The Colfax Marathon is back for another year of running fun</b></p><p>The Colfax Marathon weekend is back with thousands of runners expected in the two-day event, happening Saturday and Sunday. Other races like the half-marathon and the Urban 10 Mile are still available, and spots for the marathon are filling up.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.runcolfax.org/" target="_blank">More info. and how to register, here</a>.</p><p><b>2. Cant get enough MJ after Michael at the movies? Head to a theater performance in honor of the King of Pop</b></p><p>Michael is now the highest-grossing music biopic of all time in the North American box office, but if youve been there-done-that and still want more MJ, head to the Buell Theatre in downtown Denver to catch a performance of the multiple Tony Award-winning musical about Michael Jackson, which runs through May 17. <a href="https://www.denvercenter.org/tickets-events/mj/" target="_blank">Tickets and more info. here</a>.</p><p><b>3. The Denver Summit take on the Orlando Price this Saturday in Denver</b></p><p>Denver's professional women's soccer team takes on the Orlando Pride in an exciting NWSL matchup. Its happening Saturday starting at 6:45 p.m. <a href="https://www.denversummitfc.com/schedule/home/?gclsrc=aw.ds&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gad_campaignid=23532751885&amp;gbraid=0AAAABB5W8DOqZ4xgZEwV_PsoybBb-u_7C&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjw2YDQBhD_ARIsAE1qeSfKqRsaM50yEBmx6oiTH99Osjhuq4TODLAkDnYa_FV5F6oZt6KFvvkaAqS4EALw_wcB" target="_blank">Tickets and more info. here</a>.</p><p><b>4.</b> <b>Head to Grand Junction for the 5th annual Grand Valley River Fest</b></p><p>If youre looking for some fun outdoors, head out to Colorados Western Slope for the Grand Valley River Fest, happening all day Saturday. There will be a gear swap, a rubber ducky scramble, paddle board jousting and fitness paddle contest, a community paddle, SUP Yoga, a throw bag tournament and more.&nbsp;<a href="https://grandvalleyriverfest.com/" target="_blank">More info. here</a>.</p><p><b>5. Classical music fiends, the Colorado Mahler Fest in Boulder is where youll want to be </b></p><p>Head over to Bouler for a celebration of the great composer Gustav Mahler during a week-long festival that culminates in orchestral performances of one of Mahler's major symphonic works. The festival runs through Sunday. <a href="https://mahlerfest.org/" target="_blank">Tickets and more info. here</a>.</p><p><b>6. Want more music in your life? Head to the Tico Time Bluegrass Festival in Durango </b></p><p>Escape to the Animas River Valley for three days of live bluegrass music, community, and outdoor fun at the 6th annual Tico Time Bluegrass Music Festival, happening all weekend long in Durango. <a href="https://www.durango.com/event/tico-time-bluegrass-festival/" target="_blank">Tickets and more info., here</a>.</p><p><b>7. For the foodies out there: Theres an annual food truck festival happening in Northglenn</b></p><p>Enjoy a full weekend of food, music, and family fun at the annual Food Truck Carnival in Northglenn. Featuring 20+ food trucks daily, live entertainment, and carnival rides, this free community event is perfect for all ages. Its happening all weekend long from 4 p.m.  9 p.m. <a href="https://denver.kidsoutandabout.com/content/northglenn-food-truck-carnival" target="_blank">More info. here</a>.</p><p><b>BONUS  </b></p><p><b>Bodies: The Science Within (opening day) </b></p><p>Bodies: The Science Within makes its U.S. debut in Denver for a limited engagement at the Denver Pavilions. Seen by more than 5 million people worldwide, this national touring exhibition explores the human body through real, preserved human specimens. The event runs through June 28. <a href="https://visitdenver.com/event/bodies%3a-the-science-within/138376/" target="_blank">Tickets and more info. here</a>.</p><p><b>Head to the Sun Valley Viaduct Night Market in Denver</b></p><p>The night market is a way to celebrate this neighborhoods cultural richness and wealth of creators within a safe and fun setting. The market will be located on the south end of Empower Field, parking lot B, under the Colfax Viaduct.&nbsp;It happens Saturday from 4 p.m.-10 p.m. The event is free of charge. <a href="https://sunvalleyrising.com/" target="_blank">More info. here</a>.</p><p><b>The Gardens on Spring Creek in Fort Collins are hosting a plant sale </b></p><p>The Gardens on Spring Creek horticulture team is busy growing more than 38,000 plants for their Spring Plant Sale, happening Saturday and Sunday. Check out an array of native and regionally appropriate annuals, perennials, vegetables, herbs and hanging baskets for your garden. The event happens from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. <a href="https://gardens.fortcollins.gov/Events/Public-Events/Plant-Sale" target="_blank">Tickets and more info. here</a>.</p><p><b>Check out a performance of Pulse of America, presented by the Denver Brass</b></p><p>Denver Brass invites you on a stirring emotional journeyhonoring our heroes, uplifting the soul of a people, and igniting pride in our shared story and the enduring pulse of freedom. Its happening Sunday from 2:30-4:30 p.m. at the Bethany Lutheran Church in Cherry Hills Village. <a href="https://denverbrass.org/concerts/pulseofamericamay17" target="_blank">Tickets and more info. here</a>.</p>    </html>]]></content:encoded>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Crews battle 10-acre wildfire in Eagle County</title>
      <link>https://www.denver7.com/news/wildfire/article-template-local-news</link>
      <description>Firefighters are working to contain a 10-acre wildfire burning off Squaw Creek Road in Eagle County Thursday.</description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2026 17:44:14 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>Robert Garrison</author>
      <guid>https://www.denver7.com/news/wildfire/article-template-local-news</guid>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<html lang="en">    <head>        <meta charset="utf-8">        <meta property="op:markup_version" content="v1.0">                    <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.denver7.com/news/wildfire/article-template-local-news">                <meta property="fb:article_style" content="default">    </head>            <p>EAGLE COUNTY, Colo.  Firefighters are working to contain a 10-acre wildfire burning in Eagle County Thursday.</p><p>The fire is burning along Squaw Creek Road and was first reported Thursday morning.</p><p>There are no evacuation orders currently, but the Eagle County Sheriffs Office said Cordillera residents may leave but will not be allowed back into the area at this time.</p><p>No structure loss or injuries have been reported.</p><p>The cause of the blaze is under investigation.</p>    </html>]]></content:encoded>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>New map of drought in Colorado shows little improvement despite spring snowstorm</title>
      <link>https://www.denver7.com/news/drought/new-map-of-drought-in-colorado-shows-little-improvement-despite-spring-snowstorm</link>
      <description>The spring snowstorm that hit Colorado last week eased the severe, extreme and exceptional categories of drought in the state, but there was little overall improvement.</description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2026 14:03:14 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>Stephanie Butzer</author>
      <guid>https://www.denver7.com/news/drought/new-map-of-drought-in-colorado-shows-little-improvement-despite-spring-snowstorm</guid>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<html lang="en">    <head>        <meta charset="utf-8">        <meta property="op:markup_version" content="v1.0">                    <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.denver7.com/news/drought/new-map-of-drought-in-colorado-shows-little-improvement-despite-spring-snowstorm">                <meta property="fb:article_style" content="default">    </head>            <p>DENVER  The <a href="https://www.denver7.com/news/local-news/denvers-biggest-may-snowstorm-in-decades-leaves-trail-of-tree-damage-across-metro-area" target="_blank">spring snowstorm that hit Colorado last week</a> eased the severe, extreme and exceptional categories of drought in the state, but there was little overall improvement.</p><p>According to the <a href="https://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/CurrentMap/StateDroughtMonitor.aspx?CO" target="_blank">latest map from the U.S. Drought Monitor</a> released Thursday morning, 82% of the state still remains under at least a "severe drought" level. That is down slightly from 86% from a map released on May 7.</p> <a href="https://www.denver7.com/news/drought" target="_blank"><b>More Denver7 reporting on drought</b></a><p>The U.S. Drought Monitor classifies the intensity of drought as abnormally dry (D0), moderate drought (D1), severe drought (D2), extreme drought (D3), and exceptional drought (D4).</p><p>Currently, 14.52% of the state, mostly in northwest Colorado, is under exceptional drought. Before the recent snowstorm, that number hovered around 17%.</p><p><b>Below is the U.S. Drought Monitor's map released on Thursday.</b></p><figure> <img src="https://ewscripps.brightspotcdn.com/57/29/caf096694b87bc5daa139f5b4cb2/screenshot-2026-05-14-at-7-14-58-am.png"></figure><p>The areas that saw the most improvement post-storm were north-central and the northeastern plains of the state.</p><p><b>Below is the U.S. Drought Monitor's map released last week for comparison.</b></p><figure> <img src="https://ewscripps.brightspotcdn.com/ef/cb/3a1692e04a80a8fc3a8da4d46593/screenshot-2026-05-14-at-7-14-47-am.png"></figure><p><a href="https://www.denver7.com/news/local-news/late-spring-storm-brings-some-drought-relief-but-experts-say-colorado-reservoirs-still-far-below-normal-levels" target="_blank">Denver7 Chief Meteorologist Lisa Hidalgo reported on May 7</a> that the storm provided some benefit to the state's snowpack, but she cautioned that drought concerns remain and reservoirs remain well below normal levels.</p><p>As of data available on Thursday morning, <a href="https://www.wcc.nrcs.usda.gov/ftpref/support/states/CO/products/#state=co&amp;element=wteq" target="_blank">Colorado's snowpack</a> statewide is 14% of median.</p><figure> <img src="https://ewscripps.brightspotcdn.com/55/4e/3e87c83046be8af061148c607d94/screenshot-2026-05-14-at-7-41-31-am.png"></figure><p><a href="https://www.denver7.com/news/environment/colorados-state-climatologist-explains-what-needs-to-happen-in-the-next-few-months-to-build-up-snowpack?fbclid=IwY2xjawRyrxFleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETE3Snl4bXNCVnFUcUlWZ2cwc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHlYkZjYi5Q6t4R8ue0wy_Y4PI_o1THNbbEKmMTF7MFLQ1YI-t13nlimNLvP8_aem_19yqCunKmZDTsxC_z88yXg" target="_blank">State Climatologist Russ Schumacher warned in mid-February</a> that Colorado would need to see "essentially record-breaking high snowfall" in March and April  which tend to be the state's snowiest months  to get back to average snowpack by the spring.</p><p>That did not happen.</p><p>"The little bit of hope we have here is that it does look like probably later this year we will go into El Nio," Schumacher said. "El Nio, on the whole, tends to be wetter across Colorado, not as much in the winter, but especially in the summer and fall."</p><p>In April, Denver7 spoke with Schumacher again about the outlook. While some parts of the mountains saw some precipitation early in the month, <a href="https://www.denver7.com/news/drought/eastern-colorado-farmers-face-dire-crop-conditions-as-severe-drought-continues-to-worsen-across-the-region" target="_blank">much of eastern Colorado was dry and hurting farmers</a>.</p><p><b>Denver7 spoke with farmers on the eastern plains about how they are coping with these conditions. Watch our report below.</b></p> Eastern Colorado farmers face dire crop conditions as drought worsens<p>"The snowpack is in the worst shape it's ever been in at this time of year," he said in April. "We're in for some serious concerns related to water supply, stream flow, inflows into reservoirs in the mountains this later this spring and into the summer, because we've never had such little snow in the mountains at this time of year, and that's the source of our water."</p><p>He reiterated his hope from February about a wetter spring.</p><p>"In the near term, there's not really much to be optimistic about, but looking ahead, you know, if we look out a few months, the early indications from the climate outlooks are that the monsoon season might be more active than usual," he said. "As we get later into the summer, we're probably going to go into El Nio later this year, which tends to be wetter, certainly wetter than La Nia for Colorado."</p><p>April and May can be the wettest times of the year for Colorado, he told Denver7 in April, noting the so-called "Miracle May" of 2015.</p><p>"Basically, the whole snowpack was in bad shape, not as bad as this year, but it was in bad shape that year, and then May came around, and the whole state was getting 45, 68 inches of rain," he said. "So, a month like that, you know, is what we need right now."</p>    </html>]]></content:encoded>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>More near-record high in store for the Denver metro area today</title>
      <link>https://www.denver7.com/weather/denver-weather/more-near-record-high-in-store-for-the-denver-metro-area-today</link>
      <description>It will be another hot afternoon, with highs in the upper 80s to low 90s across the northeastern plains.  Chance for a few gusty thunderstorms this afternoon.</description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2026 12:20:19 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>Lisa Hidalgo</author>
      <guid>https://www.denver7.com/weather/denver-weather/more-near-record-high-in-store-for-the-denver-metro-area-today</guid>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<html lang="en">    <head>        <meta charset="utf-8">        <meta property="op:markup_version" content="v1.0">                    <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.denver7.com/weather/denver-weather/more-near-record-high-in-store-for-the-denver-metro-area-today">                <meta property="fb:article_style" content="default">    </head>            <p>It will be an incredibly mild start to the day. Clouds rolled in overnight and that's helping to trap in some of yesterday's heat. You'll find partly sunny skies and temperatures in the 60s for the early morning drive.</p><p>Thursday will once again feel a lot like summer, with temperatures climbing close to record highs once again. Most areas will stay dry, although a few spotty afternoon showers or storms could pop up, mainly south and east of Denver. The winds will kick up with these storms and that create elevated fire danger, especially across the plains and foothills.</p><p> Watch Lisa's forecast below</p> Cooler, with a better chance of storms in Denver this weekend<p>Friday stays warm and mostly dry, with highs about 10 to 15 degrees above normal. A couple of isolated showers or thunderstorms could develop near the foothills and Palmer Divide later in the day. Fire weather concerns will continue because of the dry air, warm temperatures, and breezy winds.</p><p>By the weekend, the weather pattern starts to shift. Saturday brings a better chance for afternoon and evening thunderstorms, and a few of those storms could become stronger if enough moisture moves back into the area. While there will still be some warm weather around, clouds and storm chances will gradually increase through the day.</p><p>Sunday into Monday looks noticeably cooler and wetter. Forecast trends continue to point toward more widespread showers and thunderstorms, with steadier rain possible at times by late Sunday and Monday. Temperatures could drop all the way back into the 50s by Monday, giving the area a much cooler and more unsettled start to next week.</p><p><b>DENVER WEATHER LINKS:</b> <a href="https://www.denver7.com/weather/hourly-forecast">Hourly forecast</a> | <a href="https://www.thedenverchannel.com/weather/radar">Radars</a> | <a href="https://www.thedenverchannel.com/traffic">Traffic</a> | <a href="https://www.thedenverchannel.com/weather">Weather Page</a> | <a href="https://www.thedenverchannel.com/liveweather">24/7 Weather Stream</a></p><p><a href="https://www.thedenverchannel.com/liveweather" target="_blank"><b>Click here</b></a> to watch the Denver7 live weather stream.</p>    </html>]]></content:encoded>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>I-225 SB lanes reopened at I-70 after 5-vehicle crash</title>
      <link>https://www.denver7.com/news/local-news/i-225-sb-lanes-closed-at-i-70-due-to-5-vehicle-crash</link>
      <description>Southbound lanes of I-225 are closed at I-70 due to a 5-vehicle crash with injuries near Smith Road.</description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2026 12:02:30 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>Jeff Anastasio</author>
      <guid>https://www.denver7.com/news/local-news/i-225-sb-lanes-closed-at-i-70-due-to-5-vehicle-crash</guid>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<html lang="en">    <head>        <meta charset="utf-8">        <meta property="op:markup_version" content="v1.0">                    <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.denver7.com/news/local-news/i-225-sb-lanes-closed-at-i-70-due-to-5-vehicle-crash">                <meta property="fb:article_style" content="default">    </head>            <p><b>Editor's note: As of 6:45 a.m., all lanes have reopened, but expect some delays in the area.</b></p><p>AURORA, Colo.  Southbound lanes of I-225 are closed at I-70 due to a 5-vehicle crash near Smith Road.</p><p>According to the Aurora Police Department, 2 people were taken to local hospitals.</p><figure> <img src="https://ewscripps.brightspotcdn.com/98/b7/8433d8164cb1a71703771a3f8437/poster-image-2026-05-14t061551-613.jpg"></figure><p>Denver7 Traffic Expert Jayson Luber said to expect congestion in the area and to take Havana, Chambers or Airport Blvd as alternative routes.</p><p>As of 6 a.m., the Aurora Police Department has opened one lane of I-225.</p><p>This story will be updated.</p><figure> <img src="https://ewscripps.brightspotcdn.com/48/21/450bdab4401b8948e4340f8f5326/hir2x0sxoaalr7.jpg"></figure>    </html>]]></content:encoded>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Denver homicide rate up in 2026, but data shows one of the best starts in a decade</title>
      <link>https://www.denver7.com/news/front-range/denver/denver-homicide-rate-up-in-2026-but-data-shows-one-of-the-best-starts-in-a-decade</link>
      <description>Denver is seeing more homicides so far in 2026 compared to the same period last year, according to data from the Denver Police Department. But context behind those numbers tells a more nuanced story.</description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2026 11:17:41 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>Allie Jennerjahn</author>
      <guid>https://www.denver7.com/news/front-range/denver/denver-homicide-rate-up-in-2026-but-data-shows-one-of-the-best-starts-in-a-decade</guid>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<html lang="en">    <head>        <meta charset="utf-8">        <meta property="op:markup_version" content="v1.0">                    <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.denver7.com/news/front-range/denver/denver-homicide-rate-up-in-2026-but-data-shows-one-of-the-best-starts-in-a-decade">                <meta property="fb:article_style" content="default">    </head>            <p>Denver is seeing more homicides so far in 2026 compared to the same period last year, according to data from the Denver Police Department. But context behind those numbers tells a more nuanced story.</p><p>There have been 18 homicides in Denver so far this year  4 more than the same period last year. However, last year marked the lowest homicide count in a decade for that stretch of the calendar, meaning 2026 still ranks among the best starts to a year the city has seen in 10 years.</p><p> In the video player below, Denver7 reporter Allie Jennerjahn breaks down the numbers.</p> Breaking down Denver's homicide trends<p>At a press conference held this week regarding a May 3 officer-involved shooting, Denver Police Chief Ron Thomas addressed concerns about violent crime in the city. He called April a "violent month," acknowledging the rise in homicides, but noted that non-fatal shootings have decreased.</p><p>Thomas said one of the department's strategies involves increasing police presence in high-crime neighborhoods.</p><p>"We have, as you know, identified a number of persistently violent hot spot locations and have applied specific strategies in those particular neighborhoods to limit the amount of violent crime that has occurred there. And none of these homicides actually occurred in any of those neighborhoods, just as was true for most of those neighborhoods last year," Thomas said.</p><p>Denver Police provided a list of locations where each of the 18 homicides this year took place. The most frequently listed area is along East Hampden Avenue.</p>This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.    </html>]]></content:encoded>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>'Harry Potter: The Exhibition' coming to Denver's South Broadway next month</title>
      <link>https://www.denver7.com/entertainment/harry-potter-the-exhibition-coming-to-denvers-south-broadway-next-month</link>
      <description>Tickets go on sale today for the wizarding world exhibition, which has already captivated more than 4.4 million fans worldwide.</description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2026 11:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>Britney Reader</author>
      <guid>https://www.denver7.com/entertainment/harry-potter-the-exhibition-coming-to-denvers-south-broadway-next-month</guid>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<html lang="en">    <head>        <meta charset="utf-8">        <meta property="op:markup_version" content="v1.0">                    <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.denver7.com/entertainment/harry-potter-the-exhibition-coming-to-denvers-south-broadway-next-month">                <meta property="fb:article_style" content="default">    </head>            <p>DENVER  A space on South Broadway is about to transform into the wizarding world of Harry Potter.</p><p>Tickets go on sale Thursday for "Harry Potter: The Exhibition," a touring exhibition making its next stop in Denver. The exhibition opens June 26 at 417 S. Broadway and will run through the holidays.</p><p>The behind-the-scenes exhibition celebrates iconic moments, characters, settings, and creatures from the "Harry Potter" and "Fantastic Beasts" film series, as well as the Tony Award-winning Broadway production "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child." Guests will get an up-close look at more than 100 authentic props and original costumes as they journey through immersive galleries featuring interactive technology. Fans can walk through the Forbidden Forest, sit up on Hagrids chair, and even play a game of Quidditch. Organizers worked directly with Warner Brothers to create this official exhibition.</p><p>The experience has already captivated more than 4.4 million fans worldwide. Denver is one of only two locations opening in the United States.</p><p>"This exhibition celebrates the extended world of Harry Potter like no other touring exhibition has done before," said Tom Zaller, president and CEO of Imagine. "With its family-friendly environment and great appreciation for storytelling and adventure, Denver is the perfect place for fans and families of all ages to experience the magic of the wizarding world. We can't wait to share it with visitors from near and far when we open this summer."</p><p>You can find <a href="https://harrypotterexhibition.com/">tickets online starting at 10 a.m.</a> Thursday.</p>    </html>]]></content:encoded>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Avalanche’s closeout bid jolted as Blackwood pulled after 3 first-period goals</title>
      <link>https://www.denver7.com/sports/avalanche/avalanches-closeout-bid-jolted-as-blackwood-pulled-after-3-first-period-goals</link>
      <description>Scott Wedgewood didn't get the start in goal but he sure got the save — and the win that sent the Colorado Avalanche to the Western Conference final.</description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2026 10:29:59 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>The Associated Press</author>
      <guid>https://www.denver7.com/sports/avalanche/avalanches-closeout-bid-jolted-as-blackwood-pulled-after-3-first-period-goals</guid>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<html lang="en">    <head>        <meta charset="utf-8">        <meta property="op:markup_version" content="v1.0">                    <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.denver7.com/sports/avalanche/avalanches-closeout-bid-jolted-as-blackwood-pulled-after-3-first-period-goals">                <meta property="fb:article_style" content="default">    </head>            <p>DENVER (AP)  Scott Wedgewood didn't get the start in goal but he sure got the save  and the win that sent the Colorado Avalanche to the Western Conference final.</p><p>Mackenzie Blackwood got the nod in net for the second straight game but he was pulled after allowing three first-period goals 48 hours after a brilliant victory at Minnesota in Game 4.</p><p>Wedgewood, who won his first six starts in his first Stanley Cup playoffs run before losing Game 3 in Minnesota, was perfect in relief in Colorado's <a href="https://apnews.com/article/wild-avalanche-stanley-cup-playoffs-score-26d81dc30c6d36930da9fdbcdaca985d">4-3 series-clinching overtime comeback</a> that sent the Avalanche to the next round to face either Anaheim or Vegas.</p><p>If I could have made changes to our lineup with healthy bodies after the first period, I'd have pulled a whole bunch of guys, not just Blackwood, Colorado coach Jared Bednar said.</p><p>Blackwood surrendered a goal to Marcus Johansson just 34 seconds into the game, then allowed a pair of goals to Nick Foligno sandwiched around a goal by Michael McCarron that was waved off because hed batted the puck with his right glove.</p><p>It was the only break Blackwood caught on a tough night that looked nothing like his Game 4 masterpiece and for a while gave renewed hope to the Wild.</p><p>We were losing all over the ice in every aspect, Bednar said. When it comes to the goalie switch, a regular-season game I would have left Blackwood in there because he was no different than the rest of our team, like we just weren't good enough. But you're looking for a spark, and for me that's a tough situation.</p><p>Wedgewood said it was tough coming into an elimination game midstream, but he and Blackwood have split time in goal all season, so this was nothing new.</p> Denver7 News Overnight<p>There's no egos, Wedgewood said. ... He's on the bench, he's not sulking. ... If it's me switching to him or him switching for me and giving these guys a little boost, then there's no ego. There's no, Its got to be me.'</p><p>For much of the night it looked like Bednar's juggling of his goaltenders this series was backfiring with the Avalanche losing their stranglehold on the series, the Wild snatching the momentum and Colorado frittering away its pronounced edge in the net.</p><p>With Wedgewood in the net, the Avs played much better in the second period but Parker Kelly was the only one to score. Then, the Wild played terrific defense and the series appeared headed back to St. Paul for Game 6 before the Avalanche scored twice in the final 3 1/2 minutes of the third period to force overtime.</p><p>Jack Drury made it 3-2 and Nathan McKinnon's spectacular goal with 1:23 left tied it.</p><p>Deadline addition Brett Kulak ended the game and the series with his first goal in 115 days 3:52 into the extra period.</p><p>I don't think anybody thought this series would end 4-1 just with how good they are, Wedgewood said. We find ways to win games. I'm proud of our group tonight.</p><p>___</p><p>AP NHL: <a href="https://apnews.com/hub/stanley-cup">https://apnews.com/hub/stanley-cup</a> and <a href="https://apnews.com/hub/nhl">https://apnews.com/hub/nhl</a></p>    </html>]]></content:encoded>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Kulak scores 3:52 into OT, Avs advance to West final with 4-3 win over Wild</title>
      <link>https://www.denver7.com/sports/avalanche/kulak-scores-3-52-into-ot-avs-advance-to-west-final-with-4-3-win-over-wild</link>
      <description>The Colorado Avalanche are headed to the Western Conference Final after beating the Minnesota Wild in overtime 4-3.</description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2026 03:27:51 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>The Associated Press</author>
      <guid>https://www.denver7.com/sports/avalanche/kulak-scores-3-52-into-ot-avs-advance-to-west-final-with-4-3-win-over-wild</guid>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<html lang="en">    <head>        <meta charset="utf-8">        <meta property="op:markup_version" content="v1.0">                    <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.denver7.com/sports/avalanche/kulak-scores-3-52-into-ot-avs-advance-to-west-final-with-4-3-win-over-wild">                <meta property="fb:article_style" content="default">    </head>            <p>DENVER (AP)  Brett Kulak scored 3:52 into overtime after Nathan MacKinnon tied it late in regulation and the <a href="https://apnews.com/article/colorado-avalanche-minnesota-wild-nhl-playoffs-82720b6cceca79bfa3f8a2c285d6f277">Colorado Avalanche</a> advanced to the Western Conference final with a 4-3 victory over the Minnesota Wild in Game 5 on Wednesday night.</p><p>Kulak capped a wild comeback for the Avalanche, who trailed 3-0 midway through the second period. Colorado moves on to the conference final for an eighth time since relocating to Denver in 1995-96.</p><p>The Avalanche will face the Vegas-Anaheim winner. Vegas leads that series 3-2.</p><p><b>Watch a recap of the game from Denver7 Sports Director Lionel Bienvenu in the video player below:</b></p> Kulak scores 3:52 into OT, Avs advance to West final with 4-3 win over Wild<p>With Minnesota up 3-1, Jack Drury scored with 3:33 remaining to set the stage for MacKinnon's goal with 1:23 left with the Colorado goal empty. The star forward sent a shot from the left side past Jesper Wallstedt and into a small space in the top left corner.</p><p>In overtime, Martin Necas took the puck, glided behind the net and back out front, where he found an open Kulak. Without missing a stride, he lined it past Wallstedt.</p><p>Kulak joined the Avalanche on Feb. 24 as part of a deal that sent Samuel Girard to Pittsburgh. Kulak was the 16th Avalanche player to score in the series.</p><p>He also was an unlikely OT hero. This was his first goal since Jan. 19 when he was with the Penguins, which also was his only goal of the regular season.</p><p>You always like to dream about it, said Kulak, who started the season with Edmonton before being dealt to Pittsburgh in December. The player I am, I'm not the guy (they're) looking down the bench, hollering, Get out there, go win it for us.</p><p>It was a rare series-ending win at home for Colorado, too. The last time the Avalanche won a series on home ice was 2008 against the Wild, when the team had Hall of Famers Joe Sakic and Peter Forsberg.</p><p>That was fun, MacKinnon said. A lot of fun.</p> Kulak scores 3:52 into OT, Avs advance to West final with 4-3 win over Wild<p>Marcus Johansson scored 34 seconds into the game and Nick Foligno added two goals to give the Wild a 3-0 after the first period. It led Colorado to take out Mackenzie Blackwood after the first and insert Scott Wedgewood, who made seven saves.</p><p>The Avalanche overcame a three-goal deficit to win a playoff game for just the third time in 53 tries since moving to Denver. The Wild had been 21-0 when leading a playoff game by at least three goals before the elimination loss.</p><p>Wallstedt stopped 30 shots for the Wild. Matt Boldy and Nico Sturm each had two assists for a banged-up Wild team that was missing center <a href="https://apnews.com/article/wild-avalanche-stanley-cup-playoffs-score-1f5b2cd1e7ce4a757cf212239734e18a">Joel Eriksson Ek and defenseman Jonas Brodin</a> all series.</p><p>When you go after something like this, theres going to be two sides of the coin, Wild coach John Hynes said. One is youre going to win, which is a great feeling. And when you lose, its an empty feeling.</p><p>___</p><p>AP NHL: <a href="https://apnews.com/hub/stanley-cup">https://apnews.com/hub/stanley-cup</a> and <a href="https://apnews.com/hub/nhl">https://apnews.com/hub/nhl</a></p>    </html>]]></content:encoded>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Greeley police arrest registered child sex offender on 56 charges, believe there may be more victims</title>
      <link>https://www.denver7.com/news/crime/greeley-police-arrest-registered-child-sex-offender-on-56-charges-believe-there-may-be-more-victims</link>
      <description>Police in Greely say they’re concerned there may be additional victims following the arrest of a registered child sex offender last week, and are asking for the public’s help in the investigation.</description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2026 02:44:11 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>Óscar Contreras</author>
      <guid>https://www.denver7.com/news/crime/greeley-police-arrest-registered-child-sex-offender-on-56-charges-believe-there-may-be-more-victims</guid>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<html lang="en">    <head>        <meta charset="utf-8">        <meta property="op:markup_version" content="v1.0">                    <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.denver7.com/news/crime/greeley-police-arrest-registered-child-sex-offender-on-56-charges-believe-there-may-be-more-victims">                <meta property="fb:article_style" content="default">    </head>            <p>GREELEY, Colo.  Police in Greely say theyre concerned there may be additional victims following the arrest of a registered child sex offender last week. Detectives are now asking for the publics help in the ongoing investigation.</p><p>Nathan Burton, 44, was arrested Friday following a monthslong investigation into the sexual exploitation of children in the area.</p> Denver7 News at 6<p>Detectives said they received cybertips alleging Burton possessed child sex abuse material. The police departments Internet Crimes Against Children Unit subsequently obtained and executed search warrants for locations in Greeley and Fort Collins, and recovered a significant amount of evidence, which assisted in the identification of multiple victims.</p><p>Burton was arrested on 56 felony charges related to the sexual exploitation of children and possession of child sexual abuse material and was booked into the Weld County Jail, where he remains on a $300,000 cash/surety bond.</p><figure> <img src="https://ewscripps.brightspotcdn.com/2c/33/e7deace64e548535bae84178639a/nathan-burton-greeley-suspect.jpg"></figure><p>Detectives are concerned there may be additional victims and encourage anyone with children who may have had interactions with Burton to contact the Greeley Police ICAC unit, a spokesperson said in a news release Wednesday.</p><p>Anyone with information on this case should contact Detective Joseph Rosengrants at <a href="mailto:Joseph.Rosengrants@greeleypd.com" target="_blank">Joseph.Rosengrants@greeleypd.com</a> or Emily Destefanis at <a href="mailto:Emily.Destefanis@greeleygov.com" target="_blank">Emily.Destefanis@greeleygov.com</a>.</p><p>The investigation is ongoing.</p>    </html>]]></content:encoded>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Runaway teen in Aurora accused in hit-and-run at Cherokee Trail High School detained, police say</title>
      <link>https://www.denver7.com/news/crime/runaway-teen-in-aurora-accused-in-hit-and-run-at-cherokee-trail-high-school-detained-police-say</link>
      <description>A runaway teen who fled the scene of an alleged hit-and-run crash at Cherokee Trail High School in Aurora Tuesday morning was detained Wednesday afternoon following an hourslong standoff.</description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2026 00:47:22 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>Óscar Contreras</author>
      <guid>https://www.denver7.com/news/crime/runaway-teen-in-aurora-accused-in-hit-and-run-at-cherokee-trail-high-school-detained-police-say</guid>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<html lang="en">    <head>        <meta charset="utf-8">        <meta property="op:markup_version" content="v1.0">                    <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.denver7.com/news/crime/runaway-teen-in-aurora-accused-in-hit-and-run-at-cherokee-trail-high-school-detained-police-say">                <meta property="fb:article_style" content="default">    </head>            <p>AURORA, Colo.  A runaway teen who fled the scene of an alleged hit-and-run crash at Cherokee Trail High School in Aurora Tuesday morning was detained Wednesday afternoon following an hourslong standoff with officers outside his mother's home.</p><p>The teen, who was only identified as a 17-year-old boy, was wanted by Aurora police after forcing Cherokee Trail High School and Fox Ridge Middle School  both part of the the Cherry Creek School District  to go on secure status and implement a controlled release of students Tuesday out of an abundance of caution.</p> Denver7 News at 6 p.m.<p>Police told Denver7 the teen had stolen his mothers vehicle the night before and was driving erratically in the parking lot of the school before fleeing after hitting a driver who was dropping off their child at school Tuesday morning.</p><p>Shortly after 3 p.m. Wednesday, Aurora police <a href="https://x.com/AuroraPD/status/2054670721658605700" target="_blank">reported</a> they were responding to a wanted party potentially in crisis at an apartment complex on E. Easter Drive near the intersection with E. Arapahoe Road and E. Roxbury Drive in southeast Aurora.</p><p>In an update later Wednesday, Aurora Police Deputy Chief Michael Gaskill confirmed the wanted party was the same teen wanted in connection with the hit-and-run at Cherokee Trail High School a day prior.</p><p>Gaskill said Aurora police received a call from the teens mother, alerting them he had returned home and was throwing items around the house, outside of a window and onto a balcony.</p><p>Police arrived at the scene and tried to talk with the boy, according to Gaskill, but several attempts to make contact yielded no results.</p><p>At one point, the teenager came out to the balcony of the residence and started throwing what officers believed to be Molotov cocktails off the balcony, Gaskill said, adding the APDs SWAT Team was then called to handle the situation.</p><p>The hourslong standoff ended when the teen came out without incident and gave up, Gaskill said.</p><p>The teen, whose identity will not be released because he is a juvenile, is now facing several charges, including unlawful display of a weapon on school grounds, criminal mischief, items related to hit-and-run, and reckless driving, Gaskill said, adding the teen will be transferred to the Aurora Detention Center.</p><p>No officers were injured during the operation, the APD deputy chief added.</p>    </html>]]></content:encoded>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Emma Burt skates between two passions: Colorado Avalanche Ice Patrol and Children's Hospital Colorado</title>
      <link>https://www.denver7.com/sports/avalanche/emma-burt-skates-between-two-passions-colorado-avalanche-ice-patrol-and-childrens-hospital-colorado</link>
      <description>She shovels NHL ice at night and counsels kids with rare genetic disorders by day. Meet Emma Burt — the Colorado Avalanche Ice Patrol member with a remarkable double life.</description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>Mike Castellucci</author>
      <guid>https://www.denver7.com/sports/avalanche/emma-burt-skates-between-two-passions-colorado-avalanche-ice-patrol-and-childrens-hospital-colorado</guid>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<html lang="en">    <head>        <meta charset="utf-8">        <meta property="op:markup_version" content="v1.0">                    <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.denver7.com/sports/avalanche/emma-burt-skates-between-two-passions-colorado-avalanche-ice-patrol-and-childrens-hospital-colorado">                <meta property="fb:article_style" content="default">    </head>            <p>DENVER  Emma Burt knows there's a real science to quiet work.</p><p>Two hours before a playoff game at Ball Arena in Denver, she makes sure the net is secure and the ice is ready for the Colorado Avalanche.</p><p><b> Watch Mike Castellucci's report in the player below:</b></p> Emma Burt skates between two passions: Colorado Avalanche Ice Patrol and Children's Hospital Colorado<p>"They're not very flexible, but enough force they'll fold," Burt said, referring to the mooring pegs that hold the net on.</p><p>As a senior member of the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/avsicepatrol/" target="_blank">Colorado Avalanche Ice Patrol</a>, Burt is part of a team of skaters who take shovels onto the ice during games.</p><p>"We go out and shovel during the games to maintain the ice to NHL standards and make sure it's clear and fast for the players during the game," Burt said.</p><figure> <img src="https://ewscripps.brightspotcdn.com/12/ae/24aa151847189e163df0fc93b82c/ice-patrol-ready-to-skate.png"></figure><p>She is also learning to drive the Zamboni.</p><p>"I am learning how to maintain the ice  slowly getting trained on driving the Zamboni," Burt said.</p><p>But the ice is only half of her world.</p><p>Just hours after leaving the Avalanche, she pulls up in a snowstorm to her day job at Children's Hospital Colorado, where she sees her first patient at 8 a.m. before heading into clinic.</p><p>Burt is a genetic counselor who works with Dr. Pete Baker in the hospital's metabolic clinic.</p><p>"We see kids with rare genetic disorders," Baker said.</p><figure> <img src="https://ewscripps.brightspotcdn.com/66/b4/fb45380c479d80d4571cb1e62f9b/cff6ea76c7fe4de5aac9ee63c9bc3f40.png"></figure><p>The work extends beyond the patient in the room.</p><p>"We're also thinking about their family members  so if something is genetic, could it affect other family members? We start with parents to see if they are at risk," Burt said.</p><p>She is new to the clinical team, but she has found that her years on the ice have made her a better counselor.</p><p>"My skills that I built through the Avs  talking with fans, and talking to anyone who comes up to us during a game  actually helped me when I had to sit down with patients. I wasn't quite as nervous about meeting a new face," Burt said.</p><p>For Burt, the rink is also a place of personal restoration.</p><p>"This is where you come to put stress away and hang out with family," Burt said.</p><figure> <img src="https://ewscripps.brightspotcdn.com/c9/2e/10f71f6c4f86b79c4664b469ce92/emma-making-sure-ice-is-smooth-and-fast-for-players.png"></figure><p>That family includes her fianc Sebastian Wilson. The two have worked together on the ice patrol for seven years and share a love of hockey and their Avalanche family. They will marry in September.</p><p>"It's cool that both our fun hobby jobs are here," Wilson said.</p><p>Wilson added that it's simply "too fun of a job not to stay here as long as we can."</p><p>Up in the balcony during a recent playoff game, Burt's parents and sibling watched from the stands.</p><p>"So proud of her, in admiration of her. Stellar human, who gives and loves and cares  she's one hell of a person," her mom Jackie said.</p><p>Her dad Ashley added she is "having a blast, in her element, in the now."</p>This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.    </html>]]></content:encoded>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Niwot incorporation debate heads toward November ballot as residents weigh local control</title>
      <link>https://www.denver7.com/news/local-news/in-your-community/boulder-county/niwot-incorporation-debate-heads-toward-november-ballot-as-residents-weigh-local-control</link>
      <description>A minimum wage dispute reignited a long-simmering question in Niwot: Should the community incorporate and govern itself, or are the costs and risks too great?</description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 13 May 2026 23:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>Colin Riley</author>
      <guid>https://www.denver7.com/news/local-news/in-your-community/boulder-county/niwot-incorporation-debate-heads-toward-november-ballot-as-residents-weigh-local-control</guid>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<html lang="en">    <head>        <meta charset="utf-8">        <meta property="op:markup_version" content="v1.0">                    <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.denver7.com/news/local-news/in-your-community/boulder-county/niwot-incorporation-debate-heads-toward-november-ballot-as-residents-weigh-local-control">                <meta property="fb:article_style" content="default">    </head>            <p>NIWOT, Colo.  A late-2025 controversy over <a href="https://bouldercounty.gov/departments/commissioners/local-minimum-wage/#1682453257583-08cb7175-4fb4" target="_blank">a new minimum wage ordinance</a> has reignited a long-running debate in Niwot: Should the town incorporate, or keep relying on the county for governance?</p><p>Supporters argue incorporation would allow residents to make their own decisions and protect the town's character. Opponents warn it would bring higher taxes, costly responsibilities and potential unintended consequences.</p><p><b> Watch Colin Riley's report in the player below:</b></p> Should Niwot incorporate?<p>The issue stems from Boulder County's minimum wage hike, which some Niwot residents and business owners opposed, fearing closures or layoffs. After pushback, the county later rolled back the increase to $16.82 for 2026, with a 3% increase each year through 2030. Those in favor of incorporation saw this battle as proof Niwot needs more control.</p><p>Denver7's Colin Riley was in Niwot on a snowy Friday in April to hear both sides of the debate from residents and business owners.</p><p>This current incorporation debate, its been brewing since about December, said Ari Adler, a Niwot resident who founded the website <a href="https://neighborsforniwot.org/" target="_blank">Neighbors for Niwot </a>to rally opposition.</p><figure> <img src="https://ewscripps.brightspotcdn.com/1c/40/37ffbf2b41dfb1660bcb76bd2dc1/niwot-incorp-battle-pkg-cr-00-00-33-09-still002.png"></figure><p>Adler said creating a municipal government would put a huge burden on the commercial tax base, or  the businesses in town. He also worried about what he called a Feed the Beast mentality, where budget shortfalls could drive development decisions some residents oppose.</p><p>What happens if a developer comes in and says, Hey, I can put a big box store in that will solve your problems, or if theres an opportunity to annex land to generate revenue  thats really concerning for me, Adler said.</p><p>Adler also said Niwot has proven it can influence county policy without incorporation, citing the wage reversal as an example of the county commissioner[s] really watching out for us and listening.</p> <b>Denver7's Colin Riley is committed to this story and others in Boulder County. If you'd like to reach out, send an email to colin.riley@denver7.com.</b><p>On the other side, Nick Little  a business owner and president of the <a href="www.niwot.town" target="_blank">Niwot Incorporation Committee</a>  said the move would give residents more autonomy, especially regarding deteriorating roads.</p><figure> <img src="https://ewscripps.brightspotcdn.com/3e/96/1cd5076f4571bb7a526fb29a5d75/niwot-incorp-battle-pkg-cr-00-01-22-05-still005.png"></figure><p>Our roads are deteriorating. You go through the town and you see plants coming up through the roads, Little said.</p><p>Little said residents could run an efficient local government and ensure decisions reflect the towns character.</p><p>Nobody wants to see big box retailers here  everybody here wants to preserve and protect Niwot, he said.</p><p>Both Adler and Little urged voters to weigh the decision carefully ahead of a possible November ballot measure. The incorporation committee has already filed a petition, and in the coming weeks, a Boulder County judge is expected to sign an order placing the initiative before voters.</p><p>On May 8, Neighbors for Niwot announced that it has officially registered as a campaign committee with Boulder County and the Colorado Secretary of State's office.</p><p>Think deeply about who you want to trust with your future, Little said. Are you willing to trust your neighbor, who you can see and you can experience, or do you want to trust people you dont know?</p><p>Adler added: Learn to talk to people in your neighborhood, and  make sure youre informed in November about what this is all about, both the benefits and the risks.</p><p>While Adler fears tax increases  with estimates of a four-mill property tax and a 2.5% sales and use tax increase  could force some residents out of Niwot, Little believes incorporation would be worth it for local control and quicker road repairs.</p>    </html>]]></content:encoded>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Jeffco Sheriff's Office 'unaware' of unreleased Jeffco school safety audit, finds no link to EHS shooter</title>
      <link>https://www.denver7.com/news/evergreen/jeffco-sheriffs-office-unaware-of-unreleased-jeffco-school-safety-audit-finds-no-link-to-ehs-shooter</link>
      <description>A third-party school safety audit flagging 153 imminent threats at Jeffco Public Schools was never shared with the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, according to the sheriff's office.</description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 13 May 2026 23:18:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>Maggie Bryan</author>
      <guid>https://www.denver7.com/news/evergreen/jeffco-sheriffs-office-unaware-of-unreleased-jeffco-school-safety-audit-finds-no-link-to-ehs-shooter</guid>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<html lang="en">    <head>        <meta charset="utf-8">        <meta property="op:markup_version" content="v1.0">                    <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.denver7.com/news/evergreen/jeffco-sheriffs-office-unaware-of-unreleased-jeffco-school-safety-audit-finds-no-link-to-ehs-shooter">                <meta property="fb:article_style" content="default">    </head>            <p>A third-party school safety audit flagging <a href="https://www.denver7.com/news/local-news/parents-demand-answers-from-jeffco-public-schools-about-unreleased-safety-audit-flagging-153-threats" target="_blank">153 imminent threats</a> at Jeffco Public Schools was never shared with the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office before or during the investigation of the shooting at Evergreen High School, according to the sheriff's office.</p><p>On Sept. 10, 2025, an Evergreen High School student <a href="https://www.denver7.com/news/local-news/report-of-active-assailant-in-the-area-of-evergreen-high-school" target="_blank">shot two of his classmates before turning the gun on himself</a>.</p><p><a href="https://www.denver7.com/news/local-news/parents-demand-answers-from-jeffco-public-schools-about-unreleased-safety-audit-flagging-153-threats" target="_blank">During a board meeting Monday night</a>, Jeffco Public Schools parents demanded answers from board members and the superintendent about a school safety audit completed a month before the shooting that had never been released to the public. Jeffco Kids First, a parent advocacy group, received a copy of the audit last week through a public records request to the school district.</p><p><b>Denver7's Maggie Bryan talked with concerned parents who called for transparency at Monday's school board meeting and pressed the school for answers. Watch her story in the video player below: </b></p> Parents say Jeffco Schools withheld safety audit results<p>"It seems that students are crying out for help in different ways, and it needs to be firmly addressed," said Lindsay Datko, executive director of Jeffco Kids First.</p><p>Jeffco Public Schools contracted with student safety firm Gaggle to conduct a no-cost pilot audit of potential safety threats within student Google Drive and email accounts. The audit, which Gaggle said it gave to school leaders during an in-person meeting in August 2025, flagged 153 imminent threats, including a hit list with 15 names, references to ongoing self-harm, domestic abuse, and potential acts of violence towards others.</p><p>Now, the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office says it was never given the report either.</p><p>"The JCSO was unaware of this report prior to receiving it from Channel 7 yesterday," said Jacki Kelley, the public information officer for the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office.</p><p>The sheriff's office said it investigated all tips and leads related to the EHS shooting, and that if investigators had received the Gaggle audit, they would have reviewed it and pursued any viable leads connected to the shooting. Kelley said the sheriff's office reviewed the Gaggle audit and found no information connected to the shooting or the suspect.</p><p>Kelley confirmed the hit list flagged by the Gaggle audit had been investigated by the sheriff's office months prior, and was associated with a different student at another Jeffco school.</p><p>"On May 22, 2025, a JCSO school resource officer was notified by school officials of a possible 'hit list' discovered on a students Chromebook. The discovery prompted an immediate investigation into the concerning document. It is my understanding that this 'hit list' is the same as what was referenced in the Gaggle report," said Kelley. "To be clear, that matter was completely unrelated to the shooting at Evergreen High School. The alleged hit list was fully investigated by the Sheriffs Office."</p><p>The sheriff's office also said the school is not in violation of the law for failing to share the Gaggle report with investigators, and that the two parties have been in communication about the audit.</p><p>"Weve had open communication about the safety audit so that we can better understand who Gaggle is, and why the audit was done," said Kelley.</p><p>As part of its investigation into the Evergreen High School shooting, the sheriff's office said it requested records from the school district directly linked to the suspect, including attendance records, emails, behavioral reports, and academic credits.</p><p>Heather Gunsallus, a spokesperson for Gaggle, said what the audit found in Jeffco Public Schools was "serious and warranted prompt attention." She said according to the company's data, school districts comparable in size to Jeffco average about 67 imminent threats over a 10-week period. Jeffco more than doubled that average, with 153 flagged threats.</p><p>In an emailed statement to Denver7 on Monday night, a spokesperson for Jeffco Public Schools said school district staff reviewed the Gaggle report and found the vast majority of information was "already known through safety systems and reporting pathways." The spokesperson said any new information was "appropriately followed up on."</p><p>The school district's Technology and Data Privacy Advisory Committee (TDPAC) publicly discussed the ongoing Gaggle audit during committee meetings in <a href="https://resources.finalsite.net/images/v1741380699/jeffcopublicschoolsorg/kzw03onr1ljbqc5kth5j/02-27-25TDPACMinutes.pdf" target="_blank">February</a> and <a href="https://resources.finalsite.net/images/v1749839640/jeffcopublicschoolsorg/z9ff9wfhwd8tqlfspbag/05-22-25TDPACMinutes.pdf" target="_blank">May</a> 2025.</p><p>Denver7 has followed up with Jeffco Public Schools to ask why the audit was never released to the public. We are still waiting for a response.</p>    </html>]]></content:encoded>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Colorado lawmakers pass bipartisan bill to further regulate sports betting</title>
      <link>https://www.denver7.com/news/local-news/colorado-lawmakers-pass-bipartisan-bill-to-further-regulate-sports-betting</link>
      <description>More regulations are on the way for sports betting after Colorado lawmakers passed a bill banning deposits using credit cards, push notifications soliciting bets, and certain types of marketing.</description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 13 May 2026 22:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>Micah Smith</author>
      <guid>https://www.denver7.com/news/local-news/colorado-lawmakers-pass-bipartisan-bill-to-further-regulate-sports-betting</guid>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<html lang="en">    <head>        <meta charset="utf-8">        <meta property="op:markup_version" content="v1.0">                    <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.denver7.com/news/local-news/colorado-lawmakers-pass-bipartisan-bill-to-further-regulate-sports-betting">                <meta property="fb:article_style" content="default">    </head>            <p>Sports betting will soon face more regulations in Colorado after state lawmakers passed a <a href="https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/SB26-131https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/SB26-131">bipartisan bill</a> this legislative session.</p><p>The bill bans using credit cards for betting accounts, bans push notifications to solicit bets, and bans marketing to anyone under the age of 21.</p><p><b> Watch Micah Smith's report in the player below:</b></p> Colorado lawmakers pass bipartisan bill to further regulate sports betting<p>The bill will <a href="https://www.denverpost.com/2026/04/24/colorado-prop-bets-sports-gambling-2/">not ban bets</a> on a specific event, outcome, or statistic in a game, also known as prop bets.</p><p>According to lawmakers, a prop bet ban would have lost the state $2.4 million in tax revenue, which helps fund Colorados water projects.</p><p>There's a lot that goes into this bill, but specifically what I like about the bill is putting protections in place to prohibit people being able to gamble on credit. That's one of the largest risk factors that we see for individuals, when they start gambling with money they don't have, Jamie Glick, executive director of Problem Gambling Coalition of Colorado, said. There's a lot of other aspects of the bill that we're neutral on.</p><p>Glick said while he is not in support of marketing to young people, hes neutral on some of the other marketing specifics, like language.</p><p>On Wednesday, the Colorado Department of Revenue reported the state collected more than $4 million in sports betting tax revenue in March, and a total of $36 million has been collected this fiscal year.</p><p>Once Colorado Gov. Jared Polis signs the bill, Colorado will join nine other states that have banned the use of credit cards for deposits for sports betting.</p>    </html>]]></content:encoded>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>For the first time in race history, BOLDERBoulder will not offer race weekend, race day registrations</title>
      <link>https://www.denver7.com/sports/local-sports/bolder-boulder/for-the-first-time-in-race-history-bolderboulder-will-not-offer-race-weekend-race-day-registrations</link>
      <description>For the first time in race history, the BOLDERBoulder will not offer race weekend or race day registration for those trying to compete during the third largest running race in the country.</description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 13 May 2026 22:14:32 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>Óscar Contreras</author>
      <guid>https://www.denver7.com/sports/local-sports/bolder-boulder/for-the-first-time-in-race-history-bolderboulder-will-not-offer-race-weekend-race-day-registrations</guid>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<html lang="en">    <head>        <meta charset="utf-8">        <meta property="op:markup_version" content="v1.0">                    <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.denver7.com/sports/local-sports/bolder-boulder/for-the-first-time-in-race-history-bolderboulder-will-not-offer-race-weekend-race-day-registrations">                <meta property="fb:article_style" content="default">    </head>            <p>DENVER  For the first time in race history, the BOLDERBoulder will not offer race weekend or race day registration for those trying to compete during the third largest running race in the country, which happens each year on Memorial Day.</p><p>Historically, the BOLDERBoulder has offered participants the opportunity to register during race weekend and or race morning, according to organizers. But with participation trending significantly higher this year and with the event nearing capacity, organizers are encouraging anyone planning to participate to register as soon as possible.</p><p>We are seeing tremendous excitement and momentum heading into this years race, said Cliff Bosley, BOLDERBoulder race director in a prepared statement. As participation continues to trend toward operational capacity, we want to ensure the highest-quality experience possible for every participant."</p><p>The 2026 BOLDERBoulder will be held on Memorial Day, Monday, May 25. Its the 46th running of the race. This year, theyre preparing for more than 50,000 registrations.</p><p>Denver7 is a proud partner of the BOLDERBoulder.</p><p>You can find more information and register at&nbsp;<a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__http:/www.BOLDERBoulder.com__;!!FJkDyvWmnr4!ZYvafJVnEg3nFRtfivLdLV65QbfXGg6rwWwvIF4Icrigqg2i1TPW43CSypfl6X57TVDgSXyT1wjZyE7-qlpNSQ$" target="_blank">www.BOLDERBoulder.com</a></p>.    </html>]]></content:encoded>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Federal judge rules ICE violated court order with unlawful warrantless arrests in Colorado</title>
      <link>https://www.denver7.com/news/local-news/federal-judge-rules-ice-violated-court-order-with-unlawful-warrantless-arrests-in-colorado</link>
      <description>A federal judge ruled ICE violated a court order by making unlawful warrantless arrests in Colorado and ordered agent training within 45 days.</description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 13 May 2026 21:53:47 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>Jessica Porter</author>
      <guid>https://www.denver7.com/news/local-news/federal-judge-rules-ice-violated-court-order-with-unlawful-warrantless-arrests-in-colorado</guid>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<html lang="en">    <head>        <meta charset="utf-8">        <meta property="op:markup_version" content="v1.0">                    <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.denver7.com/news/local-news/federal-judge-rules-ice-violated-court-order-with-unlawful-warrantless-arrests-in-colorado">                <meta property="fb:article_style" content="default">    </head>            <p>A federal judge has ruled that ICE violated a court order and the law by continuing to make unlawful warrantless arrests in Colorado.</p><p>The ACLU of Colorado<a href="https://www.aclu-co.org/app/uploads/2025/10/20251009-No.-1-Complaint.pdf"> filed a lawsuit </a>in October 2025 on behalf of four plaintiffs, alleging Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents arrested and detained people without warrants to fulfill quotas set by the Trump administration. Federal law only allows ICE agents to make warrantless arrests if an individual is a flight risk.</p><p>In November 2025, a federal judge granted a preliminary injunction barring ICE from making warrantless arrests in Colorado.</p><p>On May 12, a Colorado District Court judge ruled that ICE had violated its November order and required ICE to have more oversight and training.</p><p>Tim Macdonald, Legal Director of the ACLU of Colorado, says the decision will affect how ICE operates nationwide.</p><p>The court made clear that ICE needs to take the court's orders seriously. It's not a recommendation, it's an order. And under our Constitution, ICE is obligated to follow the law. We hope it changes their behavior, not just here in Colorado, it should change their behavior across the country, Macdonald said.</p><p>Macdonald said ICE officers were documented rounding up people in masses at nightclubs and apartments without knowing if they posed a safety risk or without probable cause that they were in the country unlawfully.</p><p>One of the four plaintiffs was Caroline Dias Goncalvas, a 20-year-old Utah college student. A Mesa County Sheriff's deputy shared her immigration status with ICE after a traffic stop in Colorado last year. She was detained for 15 days at the Aurora ICE detention facility before being released.</p><p>During the hearing, ACLU attorneys cross-examined ICE agents under oath who had engaged in warrantless arrests in Colorado.</p><p>"They admitted they didn't really understand what the law was. In fact, many of them made statements that were flatly wrong and flatly contradicted what the law actually is. The court noted that in the opinion that these officers didn't understand the legal requirements that they were supposed to be operating under, and these are people with guns and badges, and it should be terrifying to all Coloradans," Macdonald said.</p><p>ICE has been ordered to train agents on how to make arrests that comply with federal law within 45 days and is prohibited from making any warrantless arrests until the training is complete.</p><p><b>This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.</b></p>    </html>]]></content:encoded>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>1 person injured in apartment fire near Hampden Avenue, S. Yosemite Street in Denver</title>
      <link>https://www.denver7.com/news/front-range/denver/developing-story-fire-breaks-out-near-hampden-avenue-s-yosemite-street-in-denver</link>
      <description>One person was injured in a two-alarm fire at an apartment complex on E. Hampden Avenue in Denver on Wednesday afternoon.</description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 13 May 2026 20:53:06 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>Stephanie Butzer</author>
      <guid>https://www.denver7.com/news/front-range/denver/developing-story-fire-breaks-out-near-hampden-avenue-s-yosemite-street-in-denver</guid>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<html lang="en">    <head>        <meta charset="utf-8">        <meta property="op:markup_version" content="v1.0">                    <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.denver7.com/news/front-range/denver/developing-story-fire-breaks-out-near-hampden-avenue-s-yosemite-street-in-denver">                <meta property="fb:article_style" content="default">    </head>            <p>DENVER  One person was injured in a two-alarm fire at an apartment complex on E. Hampden Avenue in Denver on Wednesday afternoon.</p><p>E. Hampden Avenue is closed between S. Yosemite Street and S. Verbana Street, according to the Denver Police Department.</p><p>The Denver Fire Department said "fire is throughout the building." One person was transported to a hospital.</p><figure> <img src="https://ewscripps.brightspotcdn.com/f8/ce/b451d2074f90920ca89a92045a9a/hioqu4nbyaabjbc.jpg"></figure><p>The fire was burning what appeared to be multiple units at the Willows at Tamarac apartment complex.</p><p>Most of the fire was knocked down by 3:20 p.m., according to the fire department.</p><p>Drivers are asked to avoid the area.</p><figure> <img src="https://ewscripps.brightspotcdn.com/41/ab/7dd9d6d8463886071d536c465486/screenshot-2026-05-13-at-2-57-17-pm.png"></figure><p>Fire investigators have also responded to the scene, the fire department said.</p><p>Xcel Energy is reporting that 2,792 customers nearby are currently without power.</p>This is a developing story and will be updated once we learn more.    </html>]]></content:encoded>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Shelter-in-place order lifted after gas leak contained in Douglas County</title>
      <link>https://www.denver7.com/news/local-news/vehicle-crash-into-building-leads-to-gas-leak-shelter-in-place-order-in-douglas-county</link>
      <description>A vehicle that crashed into a building on Wednesday led to a gas leak and a shelter-in-place order. South Metro Fire said the leak has stopped, and the shelter-in-place has been lifted.</description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 13 May 2026 20:12:21 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>Robert Garrison</author>
      <guid>https://www.denver7.com/news/local-news/vehicle-crash-into-building-leads-to-gas-leak-shelter-in-place-order-in-douglas-county</guid>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<html lang="en">    <head>        <meta charset="utf-8">        <meta property="op:markup_version" content="v1.0">                    <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.denver7.com/news/local-news/vehicle-crash-into-building-leads-to-gas-leak-shelter-in-place-order-in-douglas-county">                <meta property="fb:article_style" content="default">    </head>            <p><b>UPDATE |</b> South Metro Fire said the leak has stopped, and the shelter-in-place has been lifted. Officials said a lingering gas smell may be present.</p><p>DOUGLAS COUNTY, Colo.  A vehicle that crashed into a building on Wednesday afternoon led to a gas leak and a shelter-in-place order in Douglas County.</p><p>The shelter-in-place order has been issued for a half-mile radius of 10759 Tomboy Drive, west of Interstate 25.</p><p>South Metro Fire Rescue is advising residents in the area to close windows and doors and stay inside as a heavy gas order fills the air.</p><p>They are also alerting residents within the shelter-in-place area to turn their HVAC off and avoid anything that could spark or create electricity.</p><p>The gas leak occurred after a vehicle, for unknown reasons, crashed into a building near E. Chambers Road and E. Mainstreet, rupturing a gas line.</p><p>No injuries have been reported.</p>    </html>]]></content:encoded>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Major crime ring busted after skimmers hit hundreds across Front Range</title>
      <link>https://www.denver7.com/news/crime/major-crime-ring-busted-after-skimmers-hit-hundreds-across-front-range</link>
      <description>A major Front Range crime ring has been dismantled after investigators uncovered a widespread card‑skimming operation that stole from hundreds of victims.</description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 13 May 2026 19:20:57 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>Robert Garrison</author>
      <guid>https://www.denver7.com/news/crime/major-crime-ring-busted-after-skimmers-hit-hundreds-across-front-range</guid>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<html lang="en">    <head>        <meta charset="utf-8">        <meta property="op:markup_version" content="v1.0">                    <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.denver7.com/news/crime/major-crime-ring-busted-after-skimmers-hit-hundreds-across-front-range">                <meta property="fb:article_style" content="default">    </head>            <p>BOULDER COUNTY, Colo.  A major Front Range crime ring has been dismantled after investigators uncovered a widespread cardskimming operation that stole from hundreds of victims, the Boulder County District Attorneys Office announced Tuesday.</p><p>Prosecutors indicted 11 adults and one juvenile in the alleged organized crime spree that heavily targeted Colorado EBT cardholders at Front Range 7-Eleven stores, according to the DAs office.</p><p>The Lafayette Police Department, with support from the Colorado Bureau of Investigation, led the sixmonth investigation.</p><p>Only eight of the twelve suspectsmany of them relatedhave been arrested. They are as follows:</p> Romario Ciuciu, 26 Viorel Isirus Tudor, 29 Ion Ciuciu, 49 Felicia Ciuciu, 48 Madalina Velcu, 21 Denisa Barbu, 24 Ana Maria Dumitru, 25 A Juvenile<p>Investigators say the group installed skimming devices on ATMs and pointofsale machines at several 7Eleven locations and other convenience stores across the Front Range.</p><p>"In less than six months, this group engaged in extensive criminal conduct occurring all over the Front Range," a press release from the DA's office read.</p><p>The devices captured victims card and PIN data, allowing the group to clone cards and drain EBT accounts, leaving victims without access to their funds.</p><p>Authorities linked the ring to at least 447 victims whose EBT cards were compromised, resulting in 236 cloned cards and more than $301,000 stolen or attempted stolen from their accounts.</p><p>Those indicted face several charges, including violations of the Colorado Organized Crime Control Act, cybercrime, identity theft, theft, and possession of forgery and skimming devices.</p>    </html>]]></content:encoded>
    </item>
  </channel>
</rss>
