Affidavit Details Start of Deadly Motorcycle Club Gunbattle Triggered by Daughter's Call Alleging Security Guard's Misconduct

In the early hours of November 5, a chaotic scene unfolded at Hell’s Lovers Motorcycle Club in Denver, resulting in a deadly gunbattle that claimed two lives and left three others wounded. The altercation began when a heated dispute erupted over a club security guard allegedly putting hands on one of the suspect's daughters, according to court documents.

Todd Washington, 40, and Shon McPherson, 32, now face multiple charges of first-degree murder and first-degree attempted murder in connection with the incident, surviving gunshot wounds themselves. The violence erupted around 3 a.m., resulting in the tragic deaths of Michael David, 43, and Joshua Batts, 39, while three others sustained injuries from the gunfire.

The origin of the shootout can be traced back to a distress call from Washington's daughter, upset about the alleged misconduct by the security guard. Washington swiftly arrived at the scene, and the confrontation escalated into a hail of bullets. Denver District Attorney Beth McCann expressed sorrow over the incident, emphasizing the unfortunate consequences when disputes are settled with firearms.

The aftermath of the bloodshed painted a grim picture, with the parking lot and sidewalk strewn with bullet casings, the club's building scarred by gunfire, and several vehicles riddled with bullets. Law enforcement faced resistance from business owners in accessing the property, necessitating a search warrant.

Upon gaining access, the police discovered a cache of firearms in a wooden storage shed linked to the establishment, including an AR-15-style rifle, numerous handguns, and other weaponry. Surveillance footage captured the chaotic sequence of events, from a disturbance near the club's entrance to the flash of gunfire and subsequent escape of vehicles.

McPherson, identified in the video, was seen raising his arm and firing shots before the exchange of gunfire. Washington, armed during the confrontation, was struck by bullets and received medical attention at Denver Health Medical Center.

Video evidence also showed McPherson fleeing the scene in a black Chevy sedan, later arriving at a hospital for gunshot wound treatment. In a subsequent interview, McPherson claimed a lack of details about the shooters and the incident.

Both defendants, Washington and McPherson, are currently held in Denver’s Downtown Detention Center on a $3 million bail, as per online jail records. Washington's court date is scheduled for Wednesday, while McPherson is set to appear in court on December 4.

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