RTD Board honors fallen Lakewood officer
Leaders detail the Nov. 5 shooting sequence and outline ongoing support for staff and partners.
By Jillian Foster ·
RTD leaders used a committee meeting on Nov. 10 to honor Lakewood Police agent Nicholas Graham, who was killed in the line of duty during a Nov. 5 bus shooting. The agency reaffirmed its commitment to supporting employees, customers, and law enforcement partners during the Finance and Planning Committee session.
The incident began as a reported hit-and-run. Several hours later, officers identified the suspect near the West Colfax and Wadsworth bus stop. When the suspect boarded an RTD bus, gunfire was exchanged. Agent Graham and the suspect died in the incident. Three other agents and one customer aboard the bus were injured. The bus operator was not hurt.
RTD Chief of Police and Emergency Management Steve Martingano described the sequence of events during the meeting. He noted that RTD Police responded immediately to provide scene security. Officers helped preserve critical evidence, including footage from the bus's onboard camera system. In the days following the shooting, RTD Police coordinated records and video requests. They also provided technical information about the vehicle and its equipment to investigators.
RTD GM and CEO Debra A. Johnson called the death a heartbreaking loss for the Lakewood Police Department and the public service community. She stated that law enforcement officers and transit employees often serve under difficult and dangerous circumstances. Johnson expressed gratitude for the courage and sacrifice of these public servants. She emphasized that strong partnerships between RTD, local governments, and law enforcement remain essential for a safe transit system. She noted that while such incidents are troubling, they are exceedingly rare given that RTD provides safe transportation for hundreds of thousands of customer trips each day.
Martingano added that clearing a scene does not mean the experience is over for those who lived through it. He said RTD will continue checking on its people and ensuring those affected know they are not alone. The RTD Honor Guard will participate in Agent Graham's memorial service.
Finance and Planning Committee Chair Karen Benker led the meeting in a moment of silence after the comments. RTD stated it will continue to cooperate fully with investigators as the investigation moves forward.
The agency plans to maintain its current operational schedule while supporting the ongoing review of the incident.
