DENVER, CO – A local certified public accountant was taken into custody Sunday after allegedly firing shots at two individuals in Washington Park, authorities said. Ryan Egelston, 28, is accused of escalating a dispute over a shared park bench into a violent confrontation.
Police reports indicate that Egelston became confrontational over seating arrangements, allegedly spitting, shoving, and eventually striking a fellow park-goer. As the altercation intensified, Egelston reportedly shot at the first victim, who was attempting to leave the scene on a bicycle. The bullet hit the bicycle’s tire according to the police, allowing the rider to escape without injuries.
Shortly thereafter, Egelston allegedly drew his gun again, targeting a separate individual who was not involved in the initial dispute. This second incident resulted in the victim sustaining injuries to the neck and jaw, adding to the severity of the situation.
Witnesses in the Washington Park area, particularly near South Downing Street and East Kentucky Avenue, reported seeing Egelston flee the scene in a red Hyundai sedan. Law enforcement quickly initiated a “high-risk stop” and successfully apprehended Egelston. He now faces charges of attempted first-degree murder.
Investigators have disclosed that during interviews, Egelston mentioned paranoid ideas, suggesting his belief that the victims were engaged in psychological operations against him—often referred to as “psy-ops.” These narratives are consistent with his previous public declarations on religious platforms, where he spoke extensively about his fears regarding technological advancements, particularly artificial intelligence.
In a prior interview with the Kingdom Crossroads podcast, Egelston articulated his concerns, tying AI advancements to biblical prophecy and apocalyptic predictions. His views suggest a deeply ingrained apprehension towards modern technology, which he associates with classical biblical symbols like the “mark of the beast.”
Authorities have also uncovered that Egelston was subject to a mental health intervention earlier this year. As part of the ongoing criminal proceedings, his mental health status is being carefully evaluated to understand the motivations behind his actions.
While the first victim was physically unharmed, the second victim is recovering from serious injuries sustained during the shooting. As the investigation progresses, Denver residents are seeking clarity on what led to such a shocking event within their community.
Egelston remains detained while legal proceedings continue to address the unfolding details of this case.