Posted on 09/25/2025 10:13:30 AM PDT by real saxophonist
Amber Alert suspect released after missing Boulder teen found safe by: Maddie Rhodes
Posted: Sep 25, 2025
DENVER (KDVR) — A suspect was released from custody following an Amber Alert for a missing 16-year-old who was later found safe on Tuesday, according to the Boulder Police Department.
The Boulder Police Department confirmed with FOX31 that Juan Manuel Bretado-Lopez, 19, was released from custody after he was believed to be driving the truck with the missing teen inside.
“Our thorough and ongoing investigation has revealed a number of issues that require additional investigation. In the meantime, after consulting with the Boulder County District Attorney’s Office, the suspect has been released as the investigation continues,” a spokesperson for the Boulder Police Department said.
On Monday night, a 16-year-old girl was seen being “forced” into a truck with two suspects, and police believed she was in danger. An Amber Alert for the missing teen was sent out on Tuesday morning. The girl was found safe just before noon.
On Tuesday night, Boulder police said they were able to find the victim and suspect in Thornton by retracing the suspect’s movements. At the time, they said Bretado-Lopez was detained and transported to the police department but didn’t mention possible charges.
On Thursday morning, police confirmed that Bretado-Lopez had been released.
“Upon learning of this event, Boulder PD responded aggressively to ensure the safety of the victim in this case, and we are glad that she has been safely reunited with her family. In every case, regardless of the allegations, we are determined to reach the right result, especially in a case with serious allegations,” the spokesperson said.
The spokesperson said this isn’t “unusual,” as it’s the department’s priority to investigate every case thoroughly. The spokesperson said the victim and the suspect know each other, and police don’t believe there’s an active risk to the community.
Jim
Possible
The south of the border crowd for 100 .
Not surprising coming from Boulder, heck they totally botched the JonBenet murder investigation too
We had to deal with protestors both outside and inside.
Suspected kidnapper was released pending investigation? I’m sure Juan Manuel Bretado-Lopez will stick around to be indicted. Were they afraid ICE would pick him up?
EC
Why would she be killed?
Just a guess, based on the circumstances.
Her family will keep her safe, and I expect her dad to be armed while this 19 year old is out.
Given the details in the article, it sounds like the “victim” and “suspect” knew each other which raises the possibility that this “abduction” may have been voluntary.
That’s a great possibility.
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