A man was arrested early Monday morning in connection with a vehicle theft, arson, and damage to agricultural land in Larimer County.
According to the Larimer County Emergency Communication Center, the incident began just after 4:30 a.m. on January 12, 2026, when a caller reported that his 2019 Kia Soul had been stolen from a business located in the 400 block of Centro Way. The victim provided law enforcement with updates on the location of a cell phone left inside the car.
Deputies located the stolen vehicle around 5:20 a.m. in a field east of Timnath Reservoir and north of Weld County Road 78. When they arrived, both the Kia and a nearby tree were engulfed in flames. The suspect fled into an adjacent neighborhood before deputies could make contact.
Deputies used drone technology to search for the suspect and found him emerging from a swampy area. He attempted to enter a law enforcement vehicle but was unsuccessful. Authorities identified him as Jared Rosier, age 35, from Denver.
Rosier was booked into Larimer County Jail on several charges: first degree aggravated motor vehicle theft (class 3 felony), second degree arson (class 4 felony), criminal mischief valued between $5,000 and $19,000 (class 5 felony), second degree criminal trespass on agricultural land with intent to commit a felony (class 5 felony), false reporting of identifying information to law enforcement (class 6 felony), obstructing a peace officer (class 2 misdemeanor), and second degree criminal trespass—enclosed space (petty offense). He received a $5,000 cash or surety bond set by Larimer County Court.
“This outcome is a direct result of well-coordinated teamwork and technology,” said Undersheriff Joe Shellhammer, who leads the Operations division. “I hope this sends a strong message to anyone thinking about stealing cars or damaging land in Larimer County. We’re committed to keeping this community safe and helping victims find justice.”
The Larimer County Sheriff’s Office expressed gratitude toward public safety partners including Fort Collins Police Services, Timnath Police Department, CSU Police, Windsor-Severance Fire Rescue, and Weld County Emergency Communications Center for their assistance during the incident.
Authorities emphasized that all charges are accusations at this stage; Rosier is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
