In Thornton, Colorado, a 26-year-old has been charged with the murder of his 22-year-old Topgolf co-worker. 

According to the Thornton Police Department, on December 22, 2023, Victor Salazar-Guarache, a dishwasher at Topgolf, left his shift early and took off in his car. Reports say there was a disturbance between employees.

He returned an hour later, at around 12:50 AM on December 23. At this time, Bryce Holden, a fellow dishwasher, and a kitchen manager were exiting the venue after completing their shifts. 

Police report that Salazar-Guarache, who was waiting in the parking area, confronted the pair. He then allegedly opened fire, striking Holden 12 times, while the kitchen manager narrowly escaped harm by retreating inside the facility.

Eyewitness accounts, including that of a Lyft driver present at the scene, indicate that the suspect was seen laughing as he returned to his car following the shooting. 

Holden was rushed to a local hospital by first responders but was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. 

Salazar-Guarache was apprehended a few hours later on Interstate 25 by Weld County Sheriff’s deputies, who then handed him over to Thornton police. He invoked his right to counsel upon arrest and would not speak to the authorities. He is charged with murder and attempted murder.

In a statement, Topgolf expressed deep shock and grief over the incident.

Rod Holden, Bryce’s father, described Bryce as a young man with deep values, constantly seeking self-improvement and holding a positive view of people. He also shared that Bryce was teaching himself Spanish and had aspirations to move to Barcelona in the next two years.

Following his initial court appearance, Salazar-Guarache is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on March 29, 2024, as per Adams County court records. The motive behind the shooting is still under investigation.