In a recent sentence handed down by the El Paso County courts, Devon Bobian faces a staggering 132 years behind bars for crimes that led to the death of Fountain Police Officer Julian Becerra. The incident, which spiraled into tragedy on February 2, 2023, began when law enforcement identified a stolen Hyundai Tucson, linked to a felony carjacking, in the southern end of El Paso County. The vehicle was tied to Bobian, a known felon on active parole with a history of violent crime. When police officers, including Officer Becerra, attempted to intervene, Bobian fled and instigated a high-speed chase that came to a halt on South Academy Boulevard, where the fateful events unfolded.
As reported by the El Paso County Sheriff's Office, Bobian aggressively advanced on officers after abandoning the disabled car, which ultimately resulted in Officer Becerra suffering catastrophic injuries after tumbling over a guardrail. Officer Becerra valiantly fought for his life for nine days before succumbing to his injuries on February 11, 2023. The ensuing investigation by the El Paso County Sheriff's Office Investigations Division was grueling, as more than 20 detectives and staff tirelessly sought to uncover the truth behind the fatal incident.
After a comprehensive investigation, prosecutors filed charges, and on May 13, 2024, a jury convicted Bobian on multiple charges, including Second-Degree Murder and Aggravated Robbery. The commitment of the prosecution and investigative teams garnered a conviction that culminated in today's severe sentencing. El Paso County Sheriff Joseph Roybal commented on the case, underscoring the exhaustive efforts of law enforcement and judicial partners, "Today's outcome, ensuring justice for Officer Becerra, his family, and our partners at the Fountain Police Department, is the direct result of the relentless, methodical, and highly skilled work of the El Paso County Sheriff's Office Investigations Division, the 4th Judicial District Attorney's Office, and partnering law enforcement agencies. Their determination to uncover every fact, review every piece of evidence, and ensure accountability, honors Officer Becerra's legacy and reflects the highest standards of our profession," as per the El Paso County Sheriff's Office.
