Sunday, September 13, 2015

Deputies Respond To Death On Grand Mesa, Reported Hunter

Hunter Reported Shot On Grand Mesa

Guy Pohto, 59, of Minnisota
MCSO Photo: October 2015

Update Release on October 23, 2015

Court ordered photo was taken of Guy Pohto, 59, of Cook, MN, was taken on October 22, 2015. We are publishing it here for the convenience of the media.

Updated Release on September 25, 2015...

Mesa County, Colo. -- Earlier this week, investigators turned over the criminal death investigation of Justin Burns' case to the 21st Judicial District Attorney's Office for review. The DA's Office is anticipated to release their decision on criminal charges regarding this case, later today.

At this time however, their decision has not been made public. As for the criminal investigation, the Sheriff's Office is largely complete with the investigation and media inquiries should be direct to the DA's Office after their announcement.

Additional news releases from our agency are not anticipated.


Updated Release on September 14, 2015...

Mesa County, Colo. -- Today, the Mesa County Coroner identified the deceased person involved in the hunting incident yesterday. In addition, the cause and manner of death is being released by the Coroner. The category of homicide means the death of a person was caused by the action of another. The circumstances surrounding the teen being shot remains a focus of this death investigation.

Justin Burns was reportedly bow hunting with his father when he was shot. The suspected shooter has been identified by investigators. According to Colorado Parks and Wildlife, it is currently archery and muzzleloader season for various big game, and bear rifle season in many areas across the state.

This death investigation remains active and on-going, with updates provided as they become available.

Previously Released on September 13, 2015...

Mesa County, Colo. -- The Grand Junction Regional Communication Center (dispatch) received a call around 8:30 a.m., of a possible hunter shot near Big Creek Campground, on Grand Mesa. Deputies responded to the scene, along with the Collbran Marshall and Plateau Valley Fire Department.

The Mesa County Coroner has been notified and will work with investigators to determine cause and manner of death, as well as identity of the deceased person. As is standard with any unattended death in the County, this case is being handled by agency investigators.

Updates will be provided as they become available.