Watch CBS News

Colorado Springs Police Identify Auto Zone Shooting Suspect

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (CBS4)- Police in Colorado Springs have released a picture of the man they're looking for in a deadly shooting in an Auto Zone parking lot.

One man was killed in a shooting outside an Auto Zone near Palmer Park and Powers Boulevard. Witnesses say it started with a robbery. A man was killed there and another was injured. That person is in critical condition at an area hospital.

Police say the shooter carjacked a vehicle from the scene and took a hostage. That hostage was released unhurt near the Village Inn at Palmer Park and Academy.

The vehicle that was taken was later recovered at Maizeland Road and Academy Blvd.

The suspect may be known as Edward Coffey, 47, or Ernest Schmidt, 60. Police said the Colorado Springs man should be considered armed and dangerous.

An arrest warrant has been issued for Schmidt's arrest on charges of first degree murder, attempted first degree murder, aggravated robbery and second degree kidnapping. Police urge anyone who comes in contact with Schmidt to call police and stay a safe distance away.

A total of four people were killed in a series of shootings in Colorado Springs on Wednesday. Sgt. Steve Noblitt said the three shootings were not connected.

Mayor Steve Bach said it was a sad say for Colorado Springs in a news conference Thursday morning. Watch his complete statement in the video clip below:

Anyone with information about the crimes is asked to call police or Crime Stoppers at 634-STOP or text TIP411.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.