Colorado Topgolf employee accused of fatally shooting co-worker in parking lot and laughing

THORNTON, Colo. (TCD) -- A 26-year-old former Topgolf dishwasher faces charges after allegedly fatally shooting his 22-year-old co-worker in the parking lot outside the popular business last month.

On Dec. 23, 2023, shortly before 1 a.m., the Thornton Police Department responded to a report of a shooting in the 16000 block of Grant Street and found a 22-year-old victim injured. The victim, who the 17th Judicial District Attorney's Office identified as Bryce Holden, was taken to a nearby hospital, where he died from his injuries. Thornton Police said the suspect, Victor Salazar-Guarache, was located in a neighboring area and arrested on suspicion of murder.

Police allege the shooting occurred after a "disturbance between a couple of employees in the parking lot."

An affidavit obtained by KMGH-TV alleges Salazar-Guarache left work early on Dec. 22 and went into his car. Holden and his manager reportedly finished work and left approximately an hour later. Salazar-Guarache exited his vehicle and allegedly shot Holden multiple times. The manager was unharmed.

A rideshare driver picking up someone at Topgolf reportedly overheard Salazar-Guarache laughing following the shooting.

The district attorney's office announced Dec. 29 that they charged Salazar-Guarache with first-degree murder, two counts of first-degree attempted murder, and a sentence enhancer of crime of violence. He was scheduled to appear in court on Jan. 2.

Police did not release a possible motive.

In a statement obtained by KMGH, Topgolf said they are "shocked and heartbroken by the incident that occurred in our Thornton venue parking lot, and we grieve for those impacted by this senseless act."

MORE:

• 17th Judicial District Attorney's Office Files First-Degree Murder Charge Against Victor Salazar-Guarache - 17th Judicial District Attorney's Office
• News Release, 12/23/2023 - Thornton Police Department
• Witness: Accused Thornton Top Golf shooter appeared to laugh after killing co-worker, affidavit says - KMGH