Update: Suspect ID'd in Fatal Cortez Police Officer Shooting

Thursday, November 30, 2023 at 12:48 PM

Cortez Police Officer Michael Moran was fatally wounded during a traffic stop Wednesday, November 29, 2023. During an exchange of gunfire with other members of law enforcement at a subsequent location, one suspect was killed and the second suspect was taken into custody.

From the Montezuma County Sheriff's Office

Update: Saturday, December 2, 2023

The Colorado Bureau of Investigation has released the following information in regards to the ongoing investigation into the death of Cortez Police Department Sergeant Michael Moran.

• Montezuma County Coroner George Deavers named the suspect in the incident as Jason Campbell, age 44, of Ogden, Utah.

• There is no one in custody connected to this incident at this time. A subject was inside of the suspect's vehicle at the time of the incident. The subject was interviewed and has been released.

• Investigators continue to conduct interviews and work to determine the elements and timeline of the incident.

No additional information about the investigation is available at this time.

Wednesday, November 29, 2023

At approximately 11:25 am, a Cortez Police Department officer initiated a traffic stop on South Broadway. Shots were fired at the officer who was subsequently injured. The suspects fled in their vehicle and were quickly located in the 7500 block of Hwy 160-491.

Additional shots were exchanged between the suspects and officers at the second location. One suspect died on scene and the other was taken into custody.

The injured Cortez Police Officer was transported to Southwest Memorial Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

(Editor's Note: The Cortez Police Officer who was killed has been identified as Sgt. Michael Moran. Moran rose quickly through the ranks, becoming a K-9 handler in 2016. He leaves behind two daughters, many friends, and family.)

Flags in the area have been lowered to half-staff in support of the Cortez Police Department.

If anyone has further information about this pending investigation, they are asked to contact the Cortez Police Department and the Montezuma County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch at 970-565-8441.

The Colorado Fallen Hero Foundation is accepting monetary donations on behalf of Sergeant Moran’s family. If you would like to donate, visit https://cofallenhero.org/donate

More from Local News

Farmington Hires New Museum Director

“Nathan’s expertise in the museum industry, combined with his global perspective and passion for community engagement, make him a tremendous asset to Farmington,” said Christa Chapman, Director of Cultural Affairs. “We’re excited to see how his leadership will shape the future of the Farmington Museum System.”
San Juan Co. Child Contracts Measles

While the child caught measles outside San Juan County, people may have been exposed to this latest case of measles at the following locations, days and times: San Juan Regional Medical Center Emergency Room, 801 West Maple Street in Farmington on the following days and times: Monday, May 26 from 10:30 p.m. - Tuesday, May 27 at 4:15 a.m. Wednesday, May 28 from 2 - 4 p.m. San Juan Regional Medical Center Health Partners Pediatrics Clinic, 407 South Schwartz, Suite 102 in Farmington: Friday, May 30 from 8:15 - 10:30 a.m.
Bloomfield Police Officer Dies from Injuries

Officer Ontiveros has been with the Bloomfield Police Department since December 2024 and previously worked for the Farmington Police Department. Additionally, he served as a volunteer firefighter for the Aztec Fire Department since 2017.
Suspect Killed, Bloomfield Police Officer Injured after gunfight

Bloomfield Police Department officers were conducting a traffic stop when the subject shot at an officer, striking the officer, and an officer’s weapon was also discharged. Tragically, the subject has died as a result of the incident. Their identity will be released by the Office of the Medical Investigator once next of kin have been notified.
Two Dead after Officer-Involved Shooting in Farmington

According to initial witness statements, the male subject was in the passenger seat of a vehicle being driven by a female. Witnesses reported that the vehicle moved toward law enforcement officers while the male subject attempted to climb into the driver’s seat. Shots were fired by U.S. Marshals during the incident. Both the male subject and the female driver were pronounced dead at the scene. No law enforcement personnel were injured.
One Dead After House Fire Saturday Afternoon

Second occupant in critical condition; Identity of victims not yet released.