Luca Hanlon Obituary-Death: 19-Year-Old CU Boulder Student Killed in Halloween Party Shooting

Luca Hanlon, a 19-year-old student at the University of Colorado Boulder, was killed in a shooting at a Halloween party near the university campus on Saturday night, October 31, 2026. Another 19-year-old CU Boulder student was also shot and left in critical condition.

The shooting occurred at approximately 11:28 p.m. at a residence near Seventh and Marine streets in Boulder’s University Hill neighborhood. What had begun as a Halloween gathering ended in violence, prompting an emergency response and a homicide investigation.

What Happened at the Halloween Party in Boulder?

According to the information provided, Boulder police had responded to the residence earlier in the evening following a noise complaint. Officers reportedly found a large gathering and shut down the party, although a smaller group remained inside the home.

Police identified 18-year-old Omar Perez of Thornton, who is not a CU Boulder student, as the person accused of returning to the residence after being removed with five other individuals.

Authorities allege that Perez forced his way back inside, after which a confrontation developed inside and outside the property. Witnesses reportedly described hearing what initially sounded like a balloon popping before seeing a handgun and an orange flash. Approximately three shots were reportedly fired toward the crowd.

Perez allegedly fled after the shooting. He was arrested on Monday and faces charges that reportedly include first-degree murder and attempted murder. The allegations remain subject to the legal process.

Police reportedly believe there was one shooter. Two additional individuals are being sought as persons of interest because they may have information relevant to the investigation.

Remembering Luca Hanlon

Luca Hanlon’s death has left his family, friends, classmates, and members of the University of Colorado Boulder community grieving.

At just 19 years old, Luca was a young college student whose life ended during a gathering that should have been an occasion for celebration. His passing has brought renewed attention to the loss experienced by families and communities affected by gun violence.

A Meal Train has reportedly been organized to support Luca’s family during this difficult period. Messages of sympathy and remembrance have also been shared, while his family has asked for privacy as they mourn.

The university community is also facing concern for the second student who was injured and remains in critical condition, according to the supplied account.

Personal Details

Death and Shooting Details

Community Response and Official Reaction

The shooting has prompted grief and concern across Boulder and the wider Colorado community. Colorado Governor Jared Polis reportedly expressed concern for students and families, emphasizing that people should feel safe on campus and in the places where they gather.

The incident was described in the supplied account as Boulder’s first homicide of 2026. The loss has also raised concerns about safety at large gatherings near university communities.

Funeral and Memorial Information

Specific funeral and memorial arrangements for Luca Hanlon have not been provided in the supplied information. His family has reportedly requested privacy while grieving.

A Meal Train has been organized to provide support to the family. Further details about memorial services, visitation, or burial arrangements should be confirmed through an announcement from the family or an authorized representative.

Disclaimer

This article is based on the information supplied about the October 31, 2026, shooting near the University of Colorado Boulder. Details concerning the suspect, reported charges, witness accounts, and police investigation should be checked against official Boulder Police statements and court records. Criminal allegations are not findings of guilt. Personal and funeral details not confirmed by the family have not been assumed.