Michael Close, 38, has been found guilty of first-degree murder in the shooting death of 21-year-old Isabella Thallas, who was walking her dog with her boyfriend in Denver’s Ballpark neighborhood in June 2020. The jury also convicted Close on additional counts of attempted first-degree murder, first-degree assault, and possession of large-capacity magazines. The tragic incident stemmed from a dispute over the dog relieving itself near Close’s apartment.
This case gripped the Denver community and sparked renewed discussions about gun safety and mental health. Close’s defense argued he was not guilty by reason of insanity, claiming a mental break led to the shooting. However, prosecutors contended Close acted out of rage stemming from perceived disrespect in other areas of his life. This article delves into the details of the case, the trial, and the subsequent legal ramifications.
The Tragic Events of June 2020
On June 10, 2020, Isabella Thallas and her boyfriend, Darian Simon, 27, were walking their dog near their apartment complex in the Ballpark neighborhood. According to the probable cause statement, an altercation ensued with Michael Close, who yelled at the couple about their dog defecating near his residence. The argument escalated dramatically, with Close opening fire on the unsuspecting couple. Tragically, Isabella Thallas was killed, and Darian Simon sustained injuries.
The weapon used in the shooting was an AK-47 rifle, later identified as the personal firearm of Denver police officer Dan Politica, a longtime friend of Close. This revelation added another layer of complexity to the case, raising questions about gun storage and accountability. Following the shooting, Close fled the scene but was later apprehended by Jefferson County authorities off U.S. 285.
Michael Close (Denver District Attorney’s Office)
The Trial and Verdict
The trial of Michael Close began in September 2022. The defense presented an insanity plea, arguing Close was not aware of his actions during the shooting. His public defenders acknowledged he committed the act but asserted he should be found not guilty due to his mental state.
The prosecution, however, refuted this claim. They argued Close was sane at the time of the shooting and acted out of pre-existing anger and perceived disrespect. They presented evidence suggesting Close’s rage was simmering before the incident and that the dog dispute was merely a catalyst.
After hearing extensive testimony and reviewing evidence, the jury deliberated for less than a day before reaching a verdict. They found Michael Close guilty on all counts, including first-degree murder after deliberation, first-degree murder – extreme indifference, two counts of attempted first-degree murder, and two counts of first-degree assault.
The Aftermath and Isabella’s Legacy
The verdict brought some closure to Isabella Thallas’s family, but the pain of their loss remains profound. Her mother, Ana Hernandez Thallas, expressed mixed emotions, acknowledging the justice served but emphasizing that nothing can bring her daughter back. She spoke of the harrowing experience of reliving the events through the trial and the difficulty in finding peace.
Isabella Thallas (Courtesy Thallas family)
The tragic case highlighted the importance of gun safety and responsible gun ownership. In the wake of the shooting, Colorado enacted the Isabella Joy Thallas Act, requiring gun owners to report lost or stolen firearms within five days. This law stands as a testament to Isabella’s life and a commitment to preventing similar tragedies in the future.
The Sentencing and Future Implications
Michael Close’s sentencing was scheduled for November 4, 2022. The conviction carries significant penalties, and the court will determine the appropriate sentence based on the severity of the crimes. This case serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of gun violence and the importance of addressing mental health concerns. The legal proceedings and the subsequent legislation highlight the ongoing efforts to improve gun safety and promote responsible gun ownership in Colorado and beyond.
A Community Grapples with Loss
The murder of Isabella Thallas resonated deeply within the Denver community. The senseless act of violence brought neighbors together in grief and spurred a collective call for change. The trial and subsequent conviction of Michael Close offer a degree of closure, but the scars of this tragedy will undoubtedly linger. The community continues to grapple with the loss of a young life and the broader implications for safety and security. The legacy of Isabella Thallas will continue to inspire advocacy for stricter gun control measures and a greater focus on mental health resources.
