A former Colorado sheriff’s deputy has been convicted of criminally negligent homicide in the 2022 shooting death of Christian Glass, a 22-year-old man originally from Christchurch.

The incident occurred after Glass called 911 for assistance when his vehicle became stuck near Silver Plume, Colorado.

During the encounter, Glass, who was experiencing a mental health crisis, was fatally shot by Deputy Andrew Buen.

The case drew significant attention and led to a $19 million settlement with Glass’s family, prompting changes in law enforcement training for handling mental health crises. 

The jury acquitted Buen of the more serious charge of second-degree murder but found him guilty of the lesser charge, which carries a potential sentence of up to three years in prison.

Glass’s parents, Sally and Simon Glass, who relocated from Christchurch to Boulder, Colorado, when Christian was 10, have been vocal advocates for justice and reform following their son’s death.

They expressed hope that the verdict would prevent similar tragedies in the future. 

The incident has sparked widespread discussions about law enforcement’s response to individuals in mental health crises, both in the United States and internationally.

As part of the settlement, Clear Creek County has committed to establishing a crisis response team and ensuring all deputies receive crisis intervention training.

The sentencing for Deputy Buen is scheduled for April 14, 2025.