Colorado university seeks immunity as families sue over dorm murders

The University of Colorado Colorado Springs petitioned a state court for protection from civil suits brought by Melody Montgomery, whose daughter was killed, and by Giancarlo Argueta, a surviving roommate. Both lawsuits allege that university staff failed to act on numerous complaints about Jordan’s drug use, harassment and threats before he fatally shot Samuel Knopp and Celie Rain Montgomery in February 2024. The university invoked the Colorado Governmental Immunity Act to have the cases dismissed, arguing that officials acted appropriately at the time.

Plaintiffs’ attorneys argue that campus police and administrators ignored clear warnings, and they seek a ruling that the government entities are not immune. The matter is being heard by Fourth Judicial District Judge Jennifer Viehman and is expected to continue through the week.