On July 4, 2024 at approximately 8:00pm, the Albany County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a deceased individual in the vicinity of Mirror Lake. Upon arrival, deputies confirmed the presence of a deceased individual which prompted an investigation. Initially, our office referred to the unidentified individual as “John Doe.” However, after an autopsy was completed, “John Doe” has been identified as James Bitner (56) out of Blackhawk, Colorado. The manner of death has been determined a homicide.

An investigation is being collaboratively conducted by the Albany County Sheriff’s Office, the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation, Gilpin County Sheriff’s Office, the Colorado Bureau of Investigation, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, and the Colorado 1^st Judicial District Attorney Investigator’s Office

We are working diligently to ensure that all pertinent information is shared with the public in a timely manner. However, as this case is ongoing, our updates will be limited to safeguard the integrity of the investigation. The Albany County Sheriff’s Office remains dedicated to resolving this case and providing closure to the affected family. Thank you for your patience and understanding in the limited information we are currently allowed to share with the public.

If you or anyone you know has any information regarding James Bitner, please contact the non-emergency dispatch line at 307-721-2526 and request to speak to a detective.