Colorado domestic violence report highlights persistent fatalities, opportunities for prevention

Colorado domestic violence report highlights persistent fatalities, opportunities for prevention

Oct. 21, 2026 (DENVER) - Domestic violence fatalities in Colorado have remained relatively steady over the past five years, even as homicides statewide declined, according to the Colorado Domestic Violence Fatality Review Board's annual report released today by the Colorado Attorney General's Office. The board identified 78 deaths across 57 cases in 2025, up from 72 deaths across 54 cases in 2024.

The deaths included 32 domestic violence victims, eight collateral victims, and 38 perpetrators. Domestic violence victims and collateral victims accounted for 17% of Colorado's 235 homicides in 2025, consistent with the previous year's share of 17.4%.

"Every life lost to domestic violence is a tragedy, and we owe it to victims and their families to learn from these deaths and prevent future tragedies," said Attorney General Phil Weiser. "Over the past eight years, this board has helped Colorado identify warning signs, strengthen our response to domestic violence, and connect more people with the support they need. We have made important progress, and this report reminds us that we must continue working together to save lives."

One of the report's most notable findings was that, for the first time since the board began reporting statewide data, more domestic violence perpetrators died than primary victims. Of the 38 perpetrators who died, 28 died by suicide, and 18 cases involved murder-suicide. The findings highlight the importance of recognizing suicidal behavior by perpetrators as a potential warning sign of violence toward others.

Firearms remained the leading cause of domestic violence fatalities, accounting for 82.1% of deaths in 2025, up from 75% in 2024.

Other key findings include:

• Domestic violence disproportionately affected women. In 52 of the 57 cases, the domestic violence victim was female and the perpetrator was male.
• Prior warning signs were present in many cases. At least 20 cases involved a documented history of domestic violence between the victim and perpetrator. Twelve cases involved active protection orders, and 12 involved active domestic relations proceedings at the time of the fatality.
• Children continued to experience the devastating effects of domestic violence. Although no children were killed in domestic violence-related incidents in 2025, children were present in the home in at least 15 cases and directly witnessed a fatality in at least seven.
• Additional domestic violence homicides were identified. The board identified three previously unrecognized homicides from prior years that were initially classified as suicides, accidents, or natural causes.

Board calls for continued investment in prevention and victim services

The board's findings have helped shape Colorado's approach to preventing domestic violence fatalities, including legislation passed earlier this year.

House Bill 26-1009 requires law enforcement agencies to use an evidence-based Lethality Assessment Protocol when responding to domestic violence incidents beginning July 1, 2027. The protocol helps officers identify victims at heightened risk of being killed and immediately connect them with community-based advocates who can provide support and safety planning.

Building on this progress, the board's 2026 recommendations emphasize the need for sustained funding to implement the new law, including resources for community-based advocates who will support high-risk victims. The board also recommends continued funding for its work, strengthening how family courts address domestic violence allegations, and stabilizing funding for victim services.

The Colorado Domestic Violence Fatality Review Board examines domestic violence-related deaths to identify trends, understand contributing factors, and recommend strategies to prevent future fatalities.

Read the full 2026 Colorado Domestic Violence Fatality Review Board Annual Report (PDF).

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. If you are in a crisis or need immediate support, dial 911 or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at (800) 799-SAFE (7233). For a comprehensive list of resources available throughout Colorado, please visit www.violencefreecolorado.org (opens new window).

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Media Contact:
Mallory Boyce
Communications Specialist
720-219-1898 (cell)
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