Woman Threatened by Man With Axe and Mallet in Denver Parking Garage

Police arrest 33-year-old suspect, but victim fears he may come after her again

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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A Denver woman named Scarlet says she was menaced by a man armed with an axe and mallet while in a downtown parking garage. The man approached her car and threatened her, leading Scarlet to use pepper spray in self-defense. Police later arrested a 33-year-old suspect, but Scarlet is now fundraising to move to a new apartment out of fear the man may come after her again.

Why it matters

This incident highlights ongoing concerns about safety and crime in downtown parking garages, which have long been flagged as problematic areas for poor lighting, limited visibility, and opportunistic attacks. It also raises questions about bail reform and whether the criminal justice system is doing enough to protect victims from repeat offenders.

The details

According to Scarlet, the man approached her car in the garage near 18th Avenue and Gaylord Street and raised what she described as an axe and a mallet, threatening her. Scarlet says she ducked down in her car and used pepper spray to defend herself. Police later arrested a 33-year-old man on suspicion of felony menacing, but he was later released on bond. Scarlet has started a GoFundMe to cover moving expenses as she searches for a new, safer apartment.

  • The incident occurred on Tuesday, February 7, 2026.
  • The suspect was arrested by Denver police following the incident.
  • The suspect later posted bond and was released from custody.

The players

Scarlet

A Denver woman who was threatened by a man with an axe and mallet in a downtown parking garage.

Denver Police Department

The law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and arrested the 33-year-old suspect.

Denver District Attorney's Office

The prosecutorial agency that is reviewing the case against the 33-year-old suspect.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow the 33-year-old suspect out on bail again.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the need for improved safety measures in downtown parking garages, including better lighting, security cameras, and clear visibility, to protect the public from potential threats. It also raises concerns about bail reform and whether the criminal justice system is doing enough to keep repeat offenders off the streets and protect victims.