CrimeNov 22, 2023
JSA Warns of Surge in Attacks on Jewelers on the RoadCrimeDec 05, 2023
Police Continue to Investigate Murder of Colorado Jeweler
Peter Damian Arguello, the owner of Peter Damian Fine Jewelry & Antiques, was shot and killed in an apparent robbery last week.
A vigil took place Saturday night outside Peter Damian Fine Jewelry & Antiques in Wheat Ridge, Colorado, a Denver suburb. The store’s owner, Peter Damian Arguello, was found dead inside the store last week, the apparent victim of an armed robbery. (Photo courtesy of @WheatRidgePD on X)
Wheat Ridge, Colorado—The investigation continues into the shooting death of a suburban Denver jeweler remembered for his kindness and empathy.
According to information shared via social media by the Wheat Ridge (Colorado) Police Department, officers were dispatched on a medical call around 11:15 a.m. on Nov. 29.
A separate 911 call placed about four minutes later indicated there were shots heard in the same area.
When officers arrived at the scene, Peter Damian Fine Jewelry & Antiques at 7220 W. 38th Ave., they found the store’s owner, Peter Damian Arguello, deceased.
On Monday, police department spokesman Alex Rose said the case is being investigated as a possible robbery and a homicide.
He declined to release further details on the investigation but confirmed that police found the red Chevy Silverado pickup truck believed to be connected to the robbery early Friday morning.
According to a report from CBS News Colorado, the truck was found on fire outside a tire shop.
According to information shared via social media by the Wheat Ridge (Colorado) Police Department, officers were dispatched on a medical call around 11:15 a.m. on Nov. 29.
A separate 911 call placed about four minutes later indicated there were shots heard in the same area.
When officers arrived at the scene, Peter Damian Fine Jewelry & Antiques at 7220 W. 38th Ave., they found the store’s owner, Peter Damian Arguello, deceased.
On Monday, police department spokesman Alex Rose said the case is being investigated as a possible robbery and a homicide.
He declined to release further details on the investigation but confirmed that police found the red Chevy Silverado pickup truck believed to be connected to the robbery early Friday morning.
According to a report from CBS News Colorado, the truck was found on fire outside a tire shop.
Rose said the vehicle is currently undergoing “meticulous” forensic investigation.
On Saturday night, as the town of Wheat Ridge held its holiday celebration and tree lighting, members of the community gathered outside Arguello’s store—where many have placed flowers, candles, and cards—to remember the beloved business owner.
One woman, who works at a salon a few doors down from the store, told CBS News Colorado the local jeweler always had a smile on his face.
“He always took care of everyone … everyone was welcome. He literally would have done anything for anyone in need, ever,” she said.
Up until last week, no jewelers or traveling jewelry salespeople had been killed on the job in 2023, the Jewelers’ Security Alliance confirmed.
Arguello is believed to be the first industry homicide victim of the year.
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