Sarah Steck, 28, was working the front desk at the Hyatt House hotel in Lakewood, Colorado, on the evening of December 27, 2021, after picking up a shift for a sick coworker. A recent Metropolitan State University of Denver fine arts graduate, she was remembered for her laugh, love of kittens, and passion for art and music. A man later identified as Lyndon McLeod entered the lobby, exchanged words with Sarah, then opened fire. Sarah was shot and later died at a local hospital; she was the fifth and final victim in a shooting spree that began in Denver and reached the hotel.

Authorities say McLeod had previous dealings with the hotel but no known prior connection to Sarah, making her a random victim of the rampage. Lakewood police confronted McLeod after the hotel shooting; an officer was wounded but returned fire and killed McLeod, ending the attack. A makeshift memorial formed outside the hotel as the community mourned Sarah and supported her family.

If anyone knew Sarah, worked with her, or has information about that night, please share what might help fill gaps in the timeline.