Aurora, CO – In a tragic development that has sent shockwaves through the community, the Aurora Police Department’s Major Crimes Homicide Unit announced Friday, August 1, 2025, that two juveniles have been arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of 20-year-old Jaylan Demetrious Moton. The incident occurred in the parking lot of an apartment complex on the city’s west side last month.
The suspects, identified only as a 14-year-old male and a 16-year-old male, both residents of Aurora, are facing multiple charges. Due to their status as minors, their names have not been released to the public, in accordance with Colorado law.
Timeline of the Incident
At approximately 9:45 p.m. on Monday, July 21, Aurora Police patrol officers were dispatched to the 100 block of Kenton Street in west Aurora after multiple reports of a shooting. Upon arrival, officers found Jaylan Demetrious Moton, of Thornton, suffering from a gunshot wound. He was transported to a nearby hospital where, despite emergency care, he later succumbed to his injuries.
A second individual, identified as 21-year-old Elijah Marcus Thomas, also of Aurora, was targeted during the shooting but managed to escape the gunfire unharmed.
Charges Filed
Following an intensive investigation, police arrested the 16-year-old suspect on Wednesday, July 23, and the 14-year-old suspect on Tuesday, July 22. The charges they face include:
For the 16-year-old:
- Second-Degree Murder
- Aggravated Robbery
- Unlawful Possession of a Handgun by a Juvenile
- Theft
For the 14-year-old:
- Second-Degree Murder
- Aggravated Robbery
- Unlawful Possession of a Handgun by a Juvenile
- Theft
- Attempted First-Degree Murder (for allegedly firing at Elijah Thomas)
Both suspects are currently being held in juvenile detention. Formal charges will be filed by the 18th Judicial District Attorney’s Office, which has not yet stated whether it will seek to prosecute either juvenile as an adult.
Investigation Findings
Investigators believe the two juveniles lured Jaylan Moton and Elijah Thomas to the apartment complex under the guise of a meeting, with the intent to rob them. During the robbery attempt, the suspects reportedly opened fire, fatally striking Moton. Thomas was able to flee and contact authorities.
Authorities say that both suspects fled the scene immediately following the shooting and attempted to discard evidence. The Aurora Police Department’s coordinated efforts—including witness interviews, surveillance review, and forensic analysis—led to the rapid identification and apprehension of both teens.
“This case reflects the heartbreaking consequences of youth gun violence,” said a spokesperson for the Aurora Police Department. “A young man’s life was stolen in a senseless act, and two more young lives now face years in the justice system.”
Call for Information
The investigation remains active and ongoing. Detectives are asking the public for any information, witness accounts, cellphone video, or surveillance footage from the area around the time of the shooting.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Metro Denver Crime Stoppers at 720-913-STOP (7867). Tips can remain anonymous, and individuals may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $2,000.
As the community continues to mourn the death of Jaylan Demetrious Moton, the Aurora Police Department reaffirms its commitment to seeking justice and ensuring accountability. The incident also reignites conversations around gun safety, youth intervention programs, and preventing violence among teens in Colorado communities.
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