Adams County Man Convicted of First-Degree Murder in 2016 Dollar Store Stabbing

Brighton, CO — The District Attorney’s Office announced that Anthony Dennis Grayson, 51, has been convicted of First-Degree Murder for the 2016 stabbing death of Alejandro Alvear inside a Dollar Store in Adams County. A jury returned the guilty verdict following a four-day trial in Adams County District Court. 

On September 1, 2016, the Adams County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of a stabbing at the Dollar Store located at 7067 Pecos Street. Surveillance footage and eyewitness testimony revealed that Grayson confronted the victim, Alejandro Alvear, inside the store. After a brief exchange, Grayson pulled a knife and stabbed Mr. Alvear multiple times. Mr. Alvear was transported to Denver Health Medical Center, where he was later pronounced deceased. 

Witnesses, including a store employee, stated that Grayson demanded money back from Mr. Alvear and threatened to stab him if he refused. The incident was captured on store surveillance video. Grayson was taken into custody at the scene and later charged. 

“This was a senseless act of violence in a public setting that cost a man his life,” said District Attorney Brian Mason. “Thanks to the excellent work of law enforcement, eyewitnesses, and our prosecution team, we were able to secure justice for Mr. Alvear and his family.” 

Grayson faces a mandatory sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole as a result of the First-Degree Murder conviction. Sentencing is scheduled for July 29th at 8:30 a.m. in Division F before Judge Jeffrey Ruff.  

The case experienced multiple delays due to issues related to the defendant’s competency. Ultimately, he was found competent to proceed and chose to represent himself at trial. 

Senior Deputy District Attorney Tim Twining and Deputy District Attorney Stephanie Sickler led the prosecution of the case.