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Man arrested in relation to September murder of 36-year-old near City Park

David Barela left Thornton and drove to Denver to start his shift for an on-demand food delivery company ahead of his death, his wife said.

DENVER — Denver Police on Monday arrested a 29-year-old man in relation to the shooting death of David Barela on Sept. 13 near City Park.

Tashaun Garrett is being held for investigation of first-degree murder, police said.

Credit: Denver Police Department
Tashaun Garrett mug

The murder occurred near East 21st Avenue and York Street, according to DPD. That intersection is bordered by the City Park West neighborhood on the west.

Barela's wife, Jen Ortega, said in an earlier interview that she and her husband had lunch together in Thornton ahead of his death. She said Barela left for Denver to start his shift driving and delivering food for an on-demand food delivery company.

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That was the last time she said she heard from him.

“I feel like my whole world shattered in two pieces,” Ortega said.

Barela's mother said in an earlier interview that he was a happy, outgoing person.

"He had a beautiful smile," said Karen Barela, David Barela’s mother. "He would light up the room."

Credit: KUSA
David Barela

DPD said the arrest affidavit in the case is sealed and not available for release at this time.

This story draws on previous reporting from Noel Brennan.

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