Colorado Springs police responded to a burglary call on December 3, 2025, that quickly escalated into a tense, split-second encounter. Officer Austin Hornburger discharged four rounds after a suspect brandished an AK-style Crosman BB rifle, inadvertently injuring two bystanders with non-life-threatening wounds.

Bodycam and security footage reveal the rapid escalation: within two seconds of the suspects emerging, one raised the replica rifle directly at the officer. Officer Hornburger retreated for cover while radioing the threat, illustrating the rapid decision-making required when facing a perceived lethal danger. The footage underscores how quickly law enforcement officers must assess threats and act to protect themselves and the public.

The Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD) confirmed that no charges would be filed against the suspect, emphasizing the role replica firearms play in misidentification during high-stress incidents. Public responses to the incident largely supported Officer Hornburger’s actions, recognizing the difficulty of distinguishing between real and imitation weapons in real time.

While debates about de-escalation continue, the incident highlights the split-second nature of police responses and the potential risks to bystanders in chaotic scenarios. CSPD and local officials continue to advocate for awareness about the dangers posed by realistic-looking replica firearms and encourage community cooperation to minimize such encounters in the future.