COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – Two suspects linked to a fentanyl overdose death investigation that began in 2022 have been apprehended in Colorado Springs. Hailee Helton and Thomas Galiano III were arrested in connection to the overdose deaths in El Paso County and Pueblo County.
The investigation, which began in August 2022, led authorities to issue federal arrest warrants for Helton and Galiano in August 2023 for the unlawful distribution of fentanyl resulting in death in both counties. The suspects had eluded law enforcement and were on Pikes Peak’s Most Wanted list.
After obtaining crucial information on Thursday, detectives located the suspects at a residence on South 18th Street. When approached, the suspects fled on foot, prompting a brief foot chase before multiple units of officers aided in their apprehension.
Following their capture, Helton and Galiano were booked into the El Paso County jail, with Galiano being held on no bond at the time of the arrest. Details on Helton’s status were not immediately available.
The arrests marked a significant breakthrough in the investigation, bringing some closure to the communities affected by the fentanyl overdose deaths. Authorities continue to emphasize the seriousness of the case and the dangers of fentanyl, urging anyone with information on fentanyl-related activities to come forward and assist law enforcement.