CBI Independent Review Supports Original Findings in Megan Trussell Death Investigation

Description: A Colorado Bureau of Investigation review found no evidence of homicide or assault in Megan Trussell’s 2025 death and supported the original investigative findings...

Colorado Bureau of Investigation Concludes Independent State-Level Review

into the Tragic Death of Megan Trussell

Comprehensive multi-disciplinary review

under SB22-150 supports original investigative findings

September 4, 2026 – CBI –  Lakewood, CO – The Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has finalized its independent review of the investigation into the heartbreaking death of Megan Trussell, a University of Colorado Boulder student whose life was tragically cut short in February 2025. The review, requested by Megan's family, was conducted under the authority of Senate Bill 22-150 (Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives legislation).

Comprehensive Scope & Rigorous Methodology

Initiated in January 2026, the state-level review provided an objective assessment of the missing-person response and subsequent death investigation conducted by local authorities. Over seven months, lead reviewers examined the complete investigative record, encompassing extensive digital evidence, cellular analysis, campus access records, body-worn camera footage, search documentation, and forensic files.

A central pillar of the review took place on July 21, 2026, when the case was presented to the CBI's Cold Case Review Team, a multi-disciplinary panel of approximately 40  professionals, including prosecutors, investigators, forensic pathologists and scientists, toxicologists, analysts and victim advocates. Prior to the review session, a Victim Advocate read a letter on behalf of the Trussell family to ensure their voice and concerns remained at the heart of the proceedings. Independent medical specialists evaluated all toxicological and autopsy data without prior involvement in the initial investigation.

Key Findings of the Review

Based on the totality of the record, and with input from Cold Case Review Team experts, the CBI concluded that the original response and investigation by the Boulder County Sheriff's Office and partner agencies were reasonable, substantial, and supported by the available evidence. Key findings include:

Support for Original Determination: The CBI identified no evidence supporting homicide or physical assault, nor did it find an uncompleted investigative step that would alter the ultimate conclusion that Megan's death was a suicide.

Independent Medical & Toxicological Consensus: Medical experts strongly supported the Coroner's findings, determining that toxicological results (elevated amphetamine levels) and physical signs of severe hypothermic exposure were consistent with the original cause of death.

Timely Initial Response & Search Operations: Search operations were extensive and appropriately expanded despite severe terrain and adverse weather conditions (snowfall and cold) that hampered visibility, dog teams, and drone capabilities in Boulder Canyon.

Statutory Authority

This review represents the first death-investigation review completed by the CBI under C.R.S. § 24-33.5-2602(2)(c)(II), enacted through SB22-150. The landmark legislation was established to improve law enforcement responses, address historical inequities, and foster trust in cases involving Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives (MMIR). The CBI emphasized that statutory eligibility for review does not imply initial law enforcement misconduct, but rather serves as a vital tool for independent accountability and trauma-informed review.

"No administrative review can undo the profound loss experienced by the Trussell family or answer every remaining question. However, this statutory process ensures that every piece of evidence was examined with the utmost seriousness, rigor, and respect. We offer these findings with deep compassion for Megan's grieving loved ones and a commitment to continuous improvement in law enforcement practices."

— Armando Saldate III, Director of the Colorado Bureau of Investigation

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