A Grand Junction neighborhood was shaken in the early hours of February 23 when a series of shootings and a burglary led to an intense police response. Deputies from the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO), alongside Grand Junction Police Department (GJPD) officers, were dispatched following reports of gunfire and a break-in.
At approximately 1:28 a.m., authorities arrived at the 400 block of 23 Road, responding to reports of a male suspect breaking into a building and firing multiple rounds at an occupant inside a church. The situation escalated quickly as deputies discovered shattered windows and a broken front door.
A Night of Multiple Incidents
As law enforcement set up a perimeter and began searching for the suspect, the situation intensified. Just 12 minutes later, residents within a one-block radius received a shelter-in-place notice as deputies scoured the area.
Then, at around 2 a.m., more gunfire erupted—this time from the 500 block of 23 Road.
- The homeowner reported an intruder firing multiple rounds inside their home.
- In self-defense, the homeowners returned fire.
- The suspect fled the scene before law enforcement arrived.
Given the escalating danger, the MCSO Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Team was deployed to escort the homeowners to safety. By 2:08 a.m., authorities extended the shelter-in-place advisory to residents within a mile of the 500 block of 23 Road.
Arrest in South Rim Drive
As deputies searched for the suspect, another critical tip surfaced. A resident on the 2300 block of South Rim Drive alerted dispatchers that a man, matching the suspect’s description, was attempting to open car doors.
Law enforcement—including deputies, GJPD officers, and Colorado State Patrol troopers—quickly surrounded the area. The suspect was taken into custody without further incident.
Charges Filed Against Suspect
The suspect, identified as 22-year-old Dakota Mortensen of Grand Junction, is now being held at the Mesa County Detention Facility. He faces multiple felony and misdemeanor charges, including:
| Charge | Classification |
|---|---|
| 3 Counts of Menacing (Real/Simulated Weapon) | Felony 5 |
| 3 Counts of Assault (2nd Degree Reckless w/ Serious Bodily Injury w/ Deadly Weapon) | Felony 3 |
| 3 Counts of Criminal Attempt | – |
| 2 Counts of 1st Degree Burglary (Assaults or Menaces or is Armed) | Felony 3 |
| 2 Counts of Criminal Mischief ($2,000-$5,000) | Felony 6 |
| Impersonating a Police Officer | Felony 5 |
| 3 Counts of Reckless Endangerment | Misdemeanor 2 |
| 2 Counts of Prohibited Use of Weapons | Misdemeanor 1 |
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities continue to investigate the motive behind the shootings and burglary. While no further details have been released, officials urge residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
“This was an extremely dangerous situation that could have ended much worse,” an MCSO spokesperson stated. “We’re grateful for the swift response of law enforcement and the cooperation of the community.”
For now, Grand Junction residents can breathe a little easier, knowing the suspect is in custody.
