On 01/21/23, at approximately 7:45 pm, officers with the Grand Junction Police Department responded to the 1400 block of Ouray Ave for reports of an intoxicated male who was yelling and had fired a gun in a house. It was also reported that no one had been shot. Through investigation, officers were advised by dispatch that the male, Neil Veitch (age 32), was restrained from alcohol and firearms. Several occupants of the residence exited, but Mr. Veitch barricaded himself in the attic of the house. Grand Junction Police officers attempted to contact Mr. Veitch several times and he refused to cooperate and come out of the house. Grand Junction Police Department SWAT Unit was dispatched to the scene to assist in contacting Mr. Veitch who continued to be uncooperative. Several loud hails were used by officers in an attempt to contact Mr. Veitch who remained barricaded in the attic of the house. After several hours, officers were able to contact Mr. Veitch, who fell out of the attic. Mr. Veitch was transported to St. Mary’s Hospital with minor injuries. There were no other injuries in this incident. Once Mr. Veitch was medically cleared, he was transported to the Mesa County Detention Facility where he was charged with the following:
- Illegal Discharge of a Firearm
- Possession of Weapons by Previous Offenders
- Prohibited Use of a Weapon
- Reckless Endangerment
- Resisting Arrest
- Obstructing a Peace Officer
- Violation of a Protection Order
- Criminal Possession of ID
A shelter-in-place was issued for the surrounding area until officers were able to take Mr. Veitch into custody. The Grand Junction Police Department believes this to be an isolated incident and there is no ongoing threat to the community as a result of this incident. The investigation is ongoing and there is no further information at this time.