- Roman McClay aka Lyndon McLeod was an author whose violent writings foreshadowed real-life actions.
- The December 2021 shooting spree resulted in six deaths.
- Investigators continue to explore motives linked to personal grievances.
- The incident prompted community reflection on mental health and violence.
On December 27, 2021, Denver experienced a tragic shooting spree that left six people dead, including the perpetrator, Lyndon James McLeod, also known by his pen name, Roman McClay. The events unfolded rapidly across multiple locations, creating chaos and fear in the community.
Understanding who McLeod was, including his background and motivations, is crucial in comprehending the broader implications of this incident.

This exploration delves into his life, his writings that eerily foreshadowed his actions, and the aftermath of the tragedy.
Quick Facts
Detail | Information |
Full Name | Lyndon James McLeod |
Pen Name | Roman McClay |
Birth Date | January 7, 1974 |
Death Date | December 27, 2021 |
Occupation | Author |
Notable Works | Sanction trilogy |
Also Read: Nicola Coughlan Shines at the 2024 Emmys Despite Rude Interruptions
Who Is Lyndon James McLeod?
Lyndon James McLeod was born on January 7, 1974. He grew up in a suburban environment that later influenced his views and artistic expressions. Before becoming known for his violent actions, he pursued a career as an author, self-publishing a trilogy titled Sanction under the pseudonym Roman McClay. These novels depicted violent themes and included references to real individuals who would later become victims in his shooting spree. His writings have been described as both troubling and prophetic, revealing a mindset that many experts believe contributed to his eventual actions.
The 2021 Denver and Lakewood Shootings
The shooting spree commenced around 5:25 PM in Denver when McLeod shot Michael Swinyard inside a residence near Cheesman Park. Following this initial act of violence, he engaged in a series of shootings across various locations, including a hotel where he fatally shot Sarah Steck, a desk clerk. The confrontation with law enforcement escalated when Officer Ashley Ferris attempted to apprehend him; he shot her but was ultimately killed in the exchange of gunfire with responding officers at a shopping center in Lakewood.

Timeline of Events:
- 5:25 PM: First shooting occurs.
- 5:49 PM: Exchange of gunfire with police.
- 6:12 PM: Final confrontation leading to McLeod’s death.
The violence resulted in not only loss of life but also left two individuals injured, highlighting the devastating impact on families and the community at large.
McLeod’s Motives and Psychological Profile
Investigators have struggled to pinpoint a clear motive behind McLeod’s actions. However, insights into his writing suggest a deep-seated anger towards certain individuals and societal issues. His novels contained threats directed at public figures, which raises questions about whether these fictional narratives were reflections of his real-life grievances or merely expressions of his disturbed psyche.
Psychological experts have noted that individuals like McLeod often exhibit signs of antisocial behavior prior to committing acts of violence. The combination of personal grievances and a desire for notoriety can create a dangerous cocktail that leads to tragic outcomes.
Impact on the Community
The aftermath of the shootings reverberated through Denver and Lakewood, prompting an outpouring of grief from victims’ families and friends. Community leaders called for increased awareness regarding mental health issues and gun violence prevention strategies. Additionally, law enforcement agencies reevaluated their protocols for handling similar situations in the future to prevent such tragedies from occurring again.
FAQs
Q: Who was Lyndon McLeod?
A: Lyndon James McLeod was an American author known for writing violent fiction under the pen name Roman McClay.
Q: What happened during the Denver shooting spree?
A: On December 27, 2021, McLeod carried out a series of shootings across Denver and Lakewood, resulting in six deaths.
Q: What were McLeod’s motivations?
A: While specific motives remain unclear, his writings suggested deep-seated anger towards certain individuals.
Also Read: YFN Lucci Is Alive: Attorney Drew Findling Dismisses Death Rumors
Last Updated on September 24, 2024 by 247 News Around The World