Carl D. Ransdell arrested after Cortez shots-fired standoff
Cortez officers spent about three hours at a Ridge Drive residence before arresting 68-year-old Carl D. Ransdell; bond was set at $50,000 and the case is under investigation.
Cortez Police responded to a shots-fired call at 801 Ridge Drive on Saturday, August 15, 2026, and remained on scene for approximately three hours while attempting to get 68-year-old Carl D. Ransdell to exit the residence. Ransdell was arrested in Montezuma Combined Courts case number 26CR135 on charges including 1st-degree assault on a peace officer/fireman, prohibited use of weapons, possession of a weapon while under the influence (ETOH/drug), and obstructing a peace officer; he was transported to the hospital for medical evaluation and bond was set at $50,000. The case remains under investigation.