Thornton Police investigate homicide; suspect in custody

The Thornton Police Department has arrested 28-year-old Anthony Valenta in relation to a fatal stabbing that occurred at the Maverick gas station at 237 East 120th Avenue on Sept. 16 just after 5:15 p.m..

Officers were initially dispatched to a physical disturbance between a man and a woman. While officers were on the way to the scene, they received information that the man had stabbed the woman. The 40-year-old woman was transported to a hospital and later died from her stab wound. Valenta fled the scene before police arrived, and witnesses were able to provide a description of the suspect's vehicle. Officers located Valenta driving the described vehicle in the area and took him into custody without incident.

Valenta was arrested for murder and transported to Adams County Detention Facility.

"We are grateful to the witnesses who recognized the importance of what they observed and took the time to provide our officers with a detailed description of the suspect vehicle,” said Chief Baird. “Their willingness to come forward, combined with the attentiveness and quick response of our officers, provided crucial information that ultimately led to the location and arrest of Mr. Valenta. This is an excellent example of how our community and police officers can come together to make a meaningful difference in an investigation.”

Investigators believe there are witnesses of this event that they have not been able to speak with. If you or someone you know witnessed or has information about this incident, please call the Thornton Police Department tip line at 720-977-5069.

This remains an active and ongoing investigation. Under Colorado law, the arrest and filing of criminal charges are merely formal accusations that an individual committed a crime. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

The woman's name is being withheld pending positive identification by the Adams County Coroner’s Office and notification of her next of kin.