Double Homicide Victims identified at UCCS in Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs authorities have officially named the individuals who tragically lost their lives in a double homicide incident at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs (UCCS) dormitory. The dreadful event occurred in the early hours of Friday morning within a dorm room on campus, sparking a wave of shock and sadness throughout the community.

The victims have been identified as 26-year-old Celie Rain Montgomery from Pueblo, CO, and 24-year-old Samuel Knopp from Parker, CO. The El Paso County Coroner’s Office conducted autopsies on both individuals, confirming that their deaths are being investigated as homicides. Samuel Knopp was a currently enrolled student at UCCS, while Celie Montgomery was not registered at the university.

Authorities have stressed that this tragic incident appears to be an isolated event involving individuals who were familiar with each other, rather than a random act of violence targeting the university or its students. The investigation is ongoing, with detectives diligently following leads and gathering crucial information to bring justice to the victims and their families.

In light of the sensitive nature of the case, law enforcement officials have maintained a level of confidentiality in releasing details to the public, prioritising the privacy and well-being of the victims’ families. Efforts are being made to ensure the safety of the campus community, with collaboration between the Colorado Springs Police Department and UCCS Police Department to implement necessary security measures.

This tragic incident marks the third and fourth homicides in Colorado Springs this year, a stark contrast to the same period last year when only two homicides had been reported. Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the case or who may have witnessed the incident to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation.

If you have any information that could aid in the investigation, please contact the Colorado Springs Police Department at (719) 444-7000. Alternatively, individuals who wish to remain anonymous can reach out to the Crime Stoppers Tip Line at (719) 634-STOP (7867) or 1-800-222-8477.