On July 3, 2015, William Romo-Rodriguez was killed in Denver while trying to stop an attempted theft of a Volvo SUV at El Mechanico auto body shop, 3151 West Alameda Avenue. During the struggle the suspect tried to flee and Romo-Rodriguez was ejected from the vehicle; the injuries he suffered proved fatal.

Denver police identified a primary suspect as a 16-year-old juvenile, Israel Alvarado, also known as Izzy. An arrest warrant for first-degree murder was issued and investigators warned that anyone harboring the teenager could face criminal charges; authorities also pursued leads that he may have fled to Colorado Springs and offered a reward for information. The immediate outcome of the search was not detailed.

Anyone who knew William Romo-Rodriguez, was at El Mechanico that day, or has information about Israel Alvarado is asked to come forward.