(COLORADO SPRINGS) — The two people found dead in a parking lot on South Nevada Avenue Friday, June 2 have been identified, and the Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD) said the shooting is being investigated as a murder-suicide.
According to CSPD, just before 2:15 p.m. on Friday, officers responded to the 1500 block of South Nevada, just south of I-25, on a reported shooting. When officers arrived, they found two men dead inside a car.
CSPD said bystanders tried to provide life-saving aid to the man in the driver’s seat, but he had passed away from gunshot injuries. The man in the passenger seat also had injuries from a gunshot wound, CSPD said.
On Monday, June 5, the El Paso County Coroner’s Office identified the man in the driver’s seat as 31-year-old Qualin Campbell of El Paso County. Campbell’s death is being investigated as a homicide, CSPD said.
The coroner also identified the man in the passenger seat as 44-year-old David Karels of Colorado Springs. Karels’ death is being investigated as a suicide.
CSPD said this is the 10th homicide in the city of Colorado Springs in 2023. At this time in 2022, there were 24 homicides.
The investigation into the murder-suicide is ongoing, and CSPD asked anyone with information or who is a witness to contact CSPD at (719) 444-7000. If you would like to remain anonymous, you can contact the Crime Stoppers Tip Line at (719) 634-STOP (7867).
CSPD released a statement about the homicide of Qualin Campbell.
The loss of Qualin Campbell is a tragedy. Our condolences go out to Mr. Campbell’s family, who we know are suffering greatly. Our top priority is to provide them with answers. We are aware there is information circulating about this case, and we understand the concerns and questions that arise as a result. We will continue to gather all relevant details about Mr. Campbell’s death and ensure the accuracy of our findings. While we recognize that many members of the community are eager for immediate information, it is our duty to provide the victim’s family with support and share the details of what we have learned with them before making any public announcement. We appreciate your patience and understanding.
Colorado Springs Police Department