Park County, CO – A 55-year-old man is dead and a 35-year-old suspect is in custody following a fatal shooting outside the Town of Alma on Monday night, according to the Park County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies said the incident happened around 8:15 p.m. on November 10, 2025, after a male caller reported that he had just shot someone. Responding officers found the victim unresponsive and attempted lifesaving measures, which were unsuccessful.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, the suspect was identified as Benjamin Rector, 35, and the victim as Thomas Harker Jr., 55. Rector was arrested for first-degree murder and booked into the Park County Jail without bond.
Formal charges will be filed later, authorities said. Rector’s next court appearance is scheduled for December 1 at 1:15 p.m. in Park County Combined Court in Fairplay for a bond hearing and return filing of charges.
Investigators are asking anyone with additional information to contact the Park County Sheriff’s Office tip line at 719-836-4158.
Officials emphasized that Rector is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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