A Westminster woman has been charged with first-degree murder after police say she fatally stabbed her mother during a violent argument inside their home, while a small child was present.
According to an arrest affidavit, 32-year-old Sarah Riste was sitting on the steps outside the home in the 3300 block of 92nd Place with a young child when officers arrived just before 2 p.m. Sunday. Police say Riste herself had called 911 but gave few details, telling responding officers only that “there had been an accident inside the house” before allowing them to enter.
Inside, officers discovered a grisly scene. Blood covered the walls, and at the end of the hallway, they found a body concealed under several blankets. The victim, identified as 64-year-old Kathy Johnson, was pronounced dead at the scene. No other victims were found in the home.
The affidavit states Riste’s shirt and hands were stained with blood when police arrived. Officers also reported that she was yelling at the child outside, telling them not to speak, according to The Denver Post.
During questioning at the police department, Riste allegedly told investigators that the incident followed years of emotional abuse from her mother. She said the argument had escalated and “when it became physical,” she grabbed a knife from the kitchen.
The child, believed to be Riste’s, later told investigators “something to the effect of: mom stabbed grandma, mom is going to jail, grandma is dead, and now I don’t have anyone,” according to the affidavit.
Riste was taken into custody at the scene and formally charged on Thursday in Adams County District Court with first-degree murder. Her next court appearance had not been scheduled as of Thursday morning.
Westminster police have not released further details about the events leading up to the killing or the condition of the child, who was present throughout the incident. The Department of Human Services is reportedly involved to ensure the child’s welfare.
The murder shocked the quiet Westminster neighborhood, where residents said police remained at the home for hours collecting evidence. For now, investigators say the case remains an open and active homicide investigation.