A Denver-based accountant has been arrested following a midday shooting spree in which he allegedly targeted two strangers. The 28-year-old certified public accountant, Ryan Egelston, reportedly engaged in a dispute with one of the victims over a park bench before opening fire. Egelston, who describes himself online as a “certified joy enthusiast” and “small business owner” with a “deep passion to preach and teach the Word of God,” was taken into custody on Sunday on charges of attempted first-degree murder.
The incident occurred in Denver’s Washington Park. According to the Denver Police Department, Egelston allegedly shot one of the victims in the neck and jaw after a random attack. The victim was discovered in the 900 block of South Downing Street and survived the assault. The second individual, who Egelston also allegedly shot at, had attempted to sit next to him on the park bench.
The Denver Police Department reported that Egelston was involved in a verbal altercation with the first victim over the park bench. Witnesses observed Egelston spitting on the victim, pushing him in the chest, and eventually punching him in the lower back. The victim then attempted to leave the scene on his bicycle, at which point Egelston allegedly produced a firearm and fired a round at him. A bullet defect was later discovered in the rear tire of the victim’s bike.
Shortly after the first incident, witnesses reported seeing Egelston approach the second victim in the area of South Downing Street and East Kentucky Avenue. He allegedly produced his firearm again and fired a single shot at the second victim from behind, causing serious bodily injury. There was no reported disagreement or altercation between Egelston and the second victim prior to the shooting.
Following the shootings, Egelston reportedly fled the scene in his red Hyundai sedan. He was later apprehended by police following a high-risk stop and a PIT maneuver to immobilize his car. During interviews with the police, Egelston claimed that he believed the victims were part of a “psy-ops” mission against him, a term referring to psychological operations.
Egelston had previously discussed his belief in psychological warfare during an appearance on a Christian podcast. He expressed extreme views, including the belief that artificial intelligence would usher in the end times. During his police interview, Egelston admitted to being placed on a mental health hold in May 2024, although the reasons for this remain unclear.