
An Aurora, Colorado judge has ordered the emergency closure of The Edge at Lowry apartment complex after it became a hub for violent crime tied to the dangerous Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. The decision was made after city officials argued that the complex posed an immediate danger to public safety.
Aurora City Judge Shawn Day ruled in favor of the city’s petition against the property owner, Five Dallas Partners, LLC. While the order takes effect immediately, officials say the full closure will take several weeks as efforts are made to assist lawful tenants in relocating.
Aurora Police Chief Todd Chamberlain described the complex as a crime hotspot, with over 380 calls for service in 2024 alone. He stated that despite increased police presence, violent crime continued to rise, largely driven by the Tren de Aragua gang’s influence. Chamberlain stressed that the property had become unmanageable under its current ownership.
The situation worsened in December when nine suspected gang members carried out a brutal home invasion. The attackers allegedly broke into a couple’s apartment, where they beat, stabbed and kidnapped the victims. The victims were left with serious injuries and were robbed of valuable possessions.
Authorities initially arrested 19 individuals linked to the attack, though three were later cleared. Sixteen suspects remain in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), with seven others still under investigation. Officials have identified the gang’s presence as a major factor behind the surge in violence.
Aurora officials are working with nonprofit organizations and a third-party property management company to ensure legal tenants are supported during the transition. Jessica Prosser, the city’s Director of Housing and Community Services, said efforts will focus on providing financial aid and relocation assistance, especially for families. Police will continue patrolling the area to maintain safety during the closure process.