Updates on public inquiries to the Times

2026 in the Gunnison Valley has proven to be rather eventful. Within all the excitement, questions have been raised, many of which have been directed at the Times for answers. 

Here are some answers provided by Chief of Police Sam Costello and Gunnison County Sheriff Adam Murdie. 

In regards to the fatal dog attack that occurred in Gunnison: 

• The investigation is complete;
• No charges have been filed against anyone;
• The autopsy completed on the dog proved to be normal.

In regards to the shooting at the City Market gas pump on Jan 23: 

• The shooter was 22-year-old Naji Wedderburn, originally from New York;
• The victim, who is alive and well, was not alone. His boss was in the car with him and was also involved in the argument that led to shots being fired;
• The case is still open, but there is a plea hearing scheduled for May 14 and 1:30 p.m.

In regard to the on-going concern for ICE agents waiting outside the county jail: 

• Police are unsure how many people have been picked up, but Chief Costello says it’s been at least two in 2026
• Sheriff Murdie confirmed that ICE picks people up often, and have in years past;
• The agents are waiting in unmarked vehicles;
• When someone enters the county jail, their fingerprints are taken and names, charges date of birth and country of origin are collected and are released as public information - ICE does not have access to any information that the public doesn’t;
• ICE agents are notified when people enter the jail, but the sheriff’s office does not honor their holding requests, they simply notify them of a “release time-frame”’
• “They are not picking up naturalized citizens,” said Sheriff Murdie.

In regards to the Thomas Kattnig plea hearing on April 13: 

• There is a sentencing hearing scheduled for July 6 at 11:30 a.m.