Peter Damian Arguello, owner of Peter Damian Fine Jewelry & Antiques in Wheat Ridge, Colo., was shot and killed during a possible robbery on Nov. 29, according to police and local news sources.
News reports said that Arguello was found dead before noon in the parking lot behind his store. Police are looking for a red 2003–2007 Chevy Silverado (pictured), which they believe was used by whoever committed the crime.
Anyone with information, photos, or video that might help the investigation should contact Detective Mark Slavsky by email or phone, at 303-235-2807.
The Jewelers’ Security Alliance (JSA) says it’s examining details of the case. So far this year, the crime prevention group has not recorded any homicides committed during jewelry-related crimes.
Arguello, who had run his store since 2007, was described as a beloved member of the community. Guy Nahmiach, owner of the Neighborhood Gazette, told a local news station, “We live in a world full of hate and evil, but people like Peter reminded you that there’s a lot of good all around us.”
Brenda Ritz, who wrote a feature on Arguello this summer for the Gazette, recalled what happened when she subsequently took a friend to his store to sell a piece. “She went to get a price and she kind of wasn’t sure if she wanted to sell it or not, and he comes around the corner and gives her a hug and says, ‘Don’t sell that to me until you’re ready,’” Ritz told KVDR news. “And that’s just how he was. He was more about making a good connection with people than the dollar.”
Tips for jewelers to prevent robberies can be seen in this article and on the JSA’s website.
(Photo courtesy of the Wheat Ridge Police Department)
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