Travis Lee Cooke, a 50-year-old White man from Colorado City, Arizona, was shot and killed on April 24, 2025, two days before his 51st birthday. First responders found Cooke with multiple gunshot wounds; lifesaving measures were attempted but he was pronounced dead at the scene. He is remembered in the community as an entrepreneur with a big personality, an infectious laugh, and a fearless approach to life, and he is survived by a large family that includes six children.

Investigators with the Colorado City-Hildale Police Department developed a suspect from evidence and eyewitness accounts. On April 25, 2025, a warrant was issued for 27-year-old James Elroy Nielsen of St. George, Utah; Nielsen was taken into custody in Hildale, Utah. Authorities say Cooke and Nielsen were acquainted. Nielsen has been charged with second-degree murder and is being held at the Purgatory Correctional Facility without bail pending extradition to Arizona. No motive has been publicly disclosed and the investigation is ongoing.

If anyone knew Travis Cooke or has information about the shooting, please share what can help the investigation.