A viral video showing armed men entering an Aurora, Colorado, apartment building has sparked widespread claims of a Venezuelan gang takeover. Former President Donald Trump and social media figureheads like Elon Musk amplified these claims. But how much truth is there to the story? Let’s dig in.
The Viral Video and the Hype
The video that went viral purportedly shows Spanish-speaking men with guns entering an apartment complex in Aurora. Some right-wing outlets quickly seized on the footage, suggesting the men were members of a Venezuelan gang called Tren de Aragua, and that they had “taken over” the building.
But according to city officials and residents, this isn’t the case. Aurora Mayor Mike Coffman and interim police chief Heather Morris have stated there is no Venezuelan gang “takeover” in the area. Morris even visited the building in question, and there is no evidence that gangs are in control.
Reality Check: The Edge at Lowry
The viral video was taken at a building called The Edge at Lowry. Residents there, frustrated with the poor living conditions, have been vocal about their grievances—but not because of gangs. They blame the property management company, CBZ Management, for rat infestations, bedbugs, and lack of maintenance.
CBZ, on the other hand, has tried to deflect blame by alleging gang activity in multiple Aurora buildings they own. City officials have been pushing CBZ to make necessary repairs and have cited the company for health and safety violations that date back to 2020.
Tren de Aragua in Aurora: Fact vs. Fiction
While it’s true that four members of the Tren de Aragua gang were arrested in connection with a shooting at a different Aurora apartment complex on Nome Street, this doesn’t confirm a gang “takeover.” These isolated arrests should not be blown out of proportion. Denver Mayor Mike Johnston has acknowledged that Tren de Aragua has a small presence in the area, but emphasizes that the threat is minimal compared to other criminal organizations.
What Did Aurora Officials Say?
Mayor Coffman initially made comments suggesting that gang members had taken over the apartment complex and were forcing residents to pay rent. But he later retracted this statement, clarifying to Newsweek on September 9, 2024, that “the gangs are not in control of either complex.”
Similarly, interim police chief Heather Morris stated during her visit to the building that “gang members have not taken over this complex.” She reiterated that while gang members may live in the community, they are not in control.
Final Thoughts
The claims that Venezuelan gangs have taken over apartment buildings in Aurora, Colorado, are not supported by evidence. While the viral video caused alarm, city officials and residents have made it clear that poor property management, not gang activity, is the primary issue. So, next time you see an alarming video online, take a step back and question what you’re really watching.
Stay sharp, stay informed, and remember: not everything on the internet is as it seems.
