MV homicide still under investigation

Courier staff writer

MONTE VISTA — Authorities here are continuing their investigation into a Feb. 13 double homicide, but they don’t have any additional information to release at this time, Interim Police Chief Jim Grayson said Thursday.

Monte Vista police officers responded to the Lyell Street home of John Salazar and Sarah Beasley at about 4:18 that February morning, following a report that shots had been fired at the property.

When they arrived at the scene, they found the 54-year-old Salazar lying dead on the front lawn; Beasley, 29, was found dead inside the couple’s home. Three young children survived the attack.

Salazar, who worked as a custodian at Bill Metz Elementary School, was shot five times when he stepped outside his home -- presumably to start his truck. The assailant shot Beasley four times with a small-caliber weapon; a subsequent autopsy found that one of those shots was fatal.

No suspects have been named to date, but earlier this year, police identified a person of interest who was allegedly spotted leaving the scene.

Authorities described the individual as an overweight person who stands approximately 5 feet 7 inches tall. The individual was reportedly dressed in black and wore a black ski mask and black shoes.

Anyone who may have any information about the incident is urged to call the Monte Vista Police Department at 852-6170, or the San Luis Valley Crime Stoppers line at 589-4111. Callers may remain anonymous, and they may be eligible for a reward if their tips lead to the arrest and conviction of a suspect.