Silver Plume, Colorado – Prosecutors asserted in court on Friday that former Clear Creek County Sheriff’s Deputy Andrew Buen acted aggressively and excessively when he fatally shot a young man, Christian Glass, who had called 911 for help when his car became stuck on a mountain road. Buen faces a second-degree murder charge for the shooting, with the defense claiming that Glass was likely intoxicated and had threatened officers with a knife prior to the incident.
District Attorney Heidi McCollum stated that Glass, a smart artist, spent his final moments in intense fear. Body-cam footage showed Buen and his partner struggling to persuade Glass to exit his vehicle. Despite Glass not complying and posing little threat, Buen’s actions escalated the situation, resulting in Glass’s death.
After a prolonged standoff, officers broke a car window, prompting Glass to grab a knife and swing it. Buen then fired bean bag rounds followed by his pistol, resulting in Glass’s death. Buen’s attorney argued that Glass was under the influence and posed a threat to officers, justifying Buen’s actions as necessary lethal cover.
Buen was terminated from his position at the Clear Creek Sheriff’s office, and the county later settled a $19 million claim with the Glass family. This trial marks the first involving Glass’s death, with supervisor Kyle Gould pleading guilty last year for failure to intervene.
This case adds to a series of trials involving Colorado first responders accused of violent acts on duty, reflecting a growing scrutiny on law enforcement misconduct. More attention is being placed on investigating such incidents, aided by the mandatory use of body cameras, which have provided crucial evidence in cases like Glass’s killing.
Several other officers at the scene that night also face charges of failure to intervene, underscoring the accountability sought in such cases. Buen’s trial is ongoing, with further testimonies expected in the coming days.