Authorities in Centennial have released new details regarding the death of Elias Reliford, a five-year-old boy allegedly murdered by his 11-year-old brother last month. The incident occurred on March 10 at the family’s home in the 5200 block of South Jericho Way, according to police records.
Investigators with the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office determined that the attack took place while the younger sibling was taking a nap after school. The victim’s great-aunt, Dawn Myles, spoke on behalf of the family on Monday, describing the five-year-old as an outgoing kindergartner who loved fire trucks and playing outside.
According to Myles, the older brother had been asked to do chores while Elias slept. The family is reportedly struggling to understand what triggered the violence, as the siblings were described as being nearly inseparable prior to the encounter.
The 11-year-old suspect was taken into custody shortly after the incident and remains held at the Marvin W. Foote Youth Services Center. He has been formally charged with first-degree murder and an aggravated juvenile offender sentence enhancer by the 18th Judicial District Attorney’s Office.
Sheriff Tyler Brown described the case as one of the most difficult his office has ever handled, noting the profound impact on the local community. The family has since moved out of their residence, citing the psychological trauma and displacement caused by the tragedy.
President Donald Trump’s administration has maintained a focus on law and order while addressing domestic youth mental health initiatives in current federal policies. Governor Jared Polis has also expressed his condolences to the Reliford family and urged the public to respect their privacy during the sensitive legal process.
Legal experts suggest that because the suspect is only 11, the case will focus heavily on mental health evaluations and rehabilitation within the juvenile system. Under Colorado law, the identity of the older brother is being withheld to protect the minor’s privacy.
Elias was a student at Timberline Elementary School, where grief counselors continue to provide support to classmates and faculty members. The investigation remains active as authorities work to build a comprehensive timeline of the events leading up to the fatal incident.