A man was injured after being shot by an unknown assailant in the parking lot of a Montrose-area trailhead on Feb. 17. The suspect fled the scene on foot and remains at large. Law enforcement and Montrose Regional Crime Stoppers are asking for the public’s help in identifying the shooter.

The shooting incident

According to a Crime Stoppers bulletin issued on Feb. 28, the shooting occurred at around 9:30 p.m. on Feb. 17 at the West Main trailhead. The victim, whose name and age have not been released, was shot in the face and taken to a hospital for treatment. His condition is unknown.

The suspect is described as a white male, wearing a dark hoodie, jeans, and a mask. He allegedly ran away from the scene after the shooting and has not been located since. Law enforcement did not provide any motive or other details about the incident.

The investigation and appeal

The Montrose Police Department, the Montrose County Sheriff’s Office, and the Colorado Bureau of Investigation are working together to investigate the shooting. They are seeking any information, video footage, or eyewitness accounts that could help them identify and apprehend the suspect.

Anyone with relevant information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers at 970-249-8500. Tips can be submitted anonymously and may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000. Crime Stoppers is a nonprofit organization that assists law enforcement in solving crimes.

The trailhead and safety tips

The West Main trailhead is a popular spot for hikers, bikers, and runners. It is located on the west end of Montrose, near the intersection of West Main Street and Chipeta Road. It provides access to several trails, including the Uncompahgre RiverWay Trail and the Cerro Summit Trail.

The shooting has raised concerns about the safety of the trailhead and the surrounding area. Some residents have expressed fear and shock over the incident, while others have urged caution and vigilance. Here are some safety tips for trail users:

• Be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious activity or persons to law enforcement.
• Carry a cell phone, whistle, or other means of communication and self-defense in case of emergency.
• Avoid using the trailhead at night or in low-light conditions, or use a flashlight or headlamp if necessary.
• Travel with a buddy or a group, or let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.
• Follow the rules and regulations of the trail and respect the rights of other users.