Colorado Springs Police Arrest 31-Year-Old Howard Heyliger for Second-Degree Murder Following June 26 Shooting

Colorado Springs Police Arrest 31-Year-Old Howard Heyliger for Second-Degree Murder Following June 26 Shooting

Colorado Springs, CO – July 1, 2025 — The Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD) has arrested 31-year-old Howard Heyliger in connection with a fatal shooting that occurred late on the night of June 26, 2025, near downtown Colorado Springs. Authorities have charged Heyliger with Murder in the Second Degree after a confrontation escalated into gunfire, leaving one man dead.

Incident Overview

At approximately 11:43 p.m., CSPD received multiple calls reporting gunshots at the intersection of East Platte Avenue and North Cedar Street, a busy area just northwest of Memorial Park. When officers arrived on the scene, they discovered 39-year-old Matthew Helberg suffering from a gunshot wound. Despite lifesaving efforts by emergency responders, Helberg was pronounced dead at the scene.

The El Paso County Coroner’s Office later confirmed Helberg’s identity and determined the cause of death to be a gunshot wound. His death was officially ruled a homicide.

Details of the Encounter

According to the preliminary investigation, the shooting resulted from an escalating dispute between multiple individuals in three separate vehicles. Police believe the altercation began as a road rage incident. The vehicles involved reportedly pulled over near the intersection, where the confrontation turned physical.

During the ensuing argument, Howard Heyliger allegedly drew a firearm and shot Helberg, who was unarmed at the time. Witnesses at the scene reportedly assisted police in identifying Heyliger as the suspect. He remained at the scene following the shooting and was taken into custody without incident.

Arrest and Charges

Heyliger was arrested on the night of the incident and has since been charged with second-degree murder, a Class 2 felony under Colorado law. If convicted, he faces a potential prison sentence of up to 48 years under aggravated circumstances.

He is currently being held at the El Paso County Jail, and court records show he is awaiting his first appearance before a judge. It is not yet clear whether he has retained legal counsel.

Community Impact and Police Response

This marks the 19th homicide in Colorado Springs this year, a slight decrease from 21 homicides at the same time in 2024. The incident has renewed discussions about road rage, gun violence, and public safety in high-traffic areas of the city.

CSPD released a statement emphasizing their commitment to pursuing justice in the case:

“This tragic event highlights how quickly conflict can escalate when firearms are involved. Our detectives are working diligently to ensure a thorough investigation and support the victim’s family through this difficult time,” said CSPD spokesperson Lt. James Sokolowski.

Ongoing Investigation

Detectives from CSPD’s Violent Crimes Section continue to gather evidence and speak with witnesses. Authorities are urging anyone who may have seen the incident or has relevant video footage to come forward.

Those with information are encouraged to call the CSPD non-emergency line at 719-444-7000. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Pikes Peak Crime Stoppers at 719-634-STOP (7867) or through their official website.

Looking Ahead

As the investigation continues, more details are expected to emerge, including whether any prior connection existed between Heyliger and Helberg. The District Attorney’s Office for the 4th Judicial District will review the evidence and determine the final charges.

The community is also awaiting further information about Heyliger’s criminal history, possible mental health evaluations, and the legal arguments surrounding the second-degree murder charge, which requires proof of intent but does not require premeditation.