Victor Salazar-Guarache, a 26-year-old resident of Thornton, Colorado, has been charged with the murder of his 22-year-old co-worker at Topgolf, according to local authorities.
The Thornton Police Department reported that on December 22, 2023, Salazar-Guarache, a dishwasher at the entertainment venue, left his job early during an apparent disturbance among employees. He then drove away in his vehicle.
Salazar-Guarache returned roughly an hour later, around 12:50 AM on December 23. Bryce Holden, a fellow dishwasher, and a kitchen manager were exiting after their shift when the incident occurred.
A police report states that Salazar-Guarache, who had been waiting in the parking lot, confronted the two co-workers. He is alleged to have fired multiple shots, hitting Holden 12 times. The kitchen manager avoided injury by fleeing to the building.
According to accounts from eyewitnesses, including a Lyft driver who was at the scene, Salazar-Guarache was seen laughing as he retreated to his vehicle after the shooting.
Holden was transported to a nearby hospital by emergency responders, but he was declared dead soon after his arrival.
Salazar-Guarache was captured several hours later on Interstate 25 by deputies from the Weld County Sheriff’s Office. He was then transferred into the custody of the Thornton police. After his arrest, he invoked his right to legal representation and declined to speak to law enforcement. He faces charges of murder and attempted murder.
Topgolf issued a statement expressing profound shock and sorrow over the tragic event.
Rod Holden, Bryce’s father, portrayed his son as a young man with strong principles, always striving for self-improvement and maintaining a positive outlook on others. He disclosed that Bryce was teaching himself Spanish and had plans to relocate to Barcelona within the next two years.
Adams County court records show that Salazar-Guarache is set for a preliminary hearing on March 29, 2024, following his initial court appearance. The motive for the shooting remains under investigation.
