Escapee prompts shelter-in-place alert for a neighborhood in Douglas County

The Larkspur community in Douglas County was put on high alert on Friday as a dangerous inmate from Weld County managed to escape from custody. Local authorities have issued a shelter-in-place order for the area and are actively searching for the escapee, identified as Luis Fernando Certa-Regaldo.

The alert was shared at approximately 2:30 p.m., causing fear and concern among the residents of Larkspur and the surrounding areas. The affected area, located on the south side of Douglas County, includes Fox Farm Road and Spruce Mountain Road.

According to the Douglas County Sheriff's Office, Certa-Regaldo is considered armed and extremely dangerous. He was last seen wearing a black and red checkered jacket, blue jeans, and a dark-colored baseball cap. The public is warned not to approach the inmate, but to immediately call 911 if they spot him.

The search operation is being carried out by the Douglas County Regional SWAT team alongside local deputies. The search for Certa-Regaldo has been ongoing since he escaped from Weld County.

It is unclear at this time how the inmate was able to escape from custody. However, authorities believe he may have received assistance in his escape and are conducting a thorough investigation.

Residents have been urged to stay inside and lock all doors and windows while the search continues. The sheriff's office has advised that the shelter-in-place order will remain in effect until further notice.

In a statement released on social media, the Douglas County Sheriff's Office stated, "We are actively searching for Luis Fernando Certa-Regaldo and will not rest until he is back in custody. We ask for the community's cooperation and vigilance in this matter. If you have any information regarding his whereabouts, please contact 911 immediately."

Certa-Regaldo was initially held in Weld County on multiple charges, including armed robbery, assault with a deadly weapon, and attempted escape. Now, authorities warn that he poses a significant threat to the public as he remains at large.

Follow the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office for updates on Facebook:

“Updated description: last seen wearing black pants, a black shirt with cutoff sleeves, and a black baseball cap.

A shelter in place has been issued in the Larkspur area of Fox Farm Road and Spruce Mountain Road. Douglas County Sheriff’s Office deputies and the Douglas County Regional SWAT team are actively searching for Luis Fernando Certa-Regaldo, who is wanted for escaping from Weld County. He is considered armed and dangerous. If you see him, do not approach. Call 911.”

Residents in the area are urged to stay alert and follow all instructions from law enforcement.