Uber driver killed in shooting sought refuge in war-torn Ethiopia

AURORA, Colo. (KDVR) – An emotional memorial service was held Tuesday for the Uber driver killed in a random shooting in Denver last week.

Goitom Hagos came to the Denver metro years ago to join his family. He was driving for the rideshare company to support his family when he was killed in the shooting on 17th Avenue in City Park West.

The funeral service was held at the Hamere Noah Kidane Mehret Cathedral, also known as the Tigrayan Orthodox Church, in Aurora. A close-knit community of Ethiopians gathered for the final farewell to Hagos.

The 51-year-old was remembered as a fun-loving, bright and charismatic person whose life was far too short.

“It was a terrible tragedy and we are deeply shocked that this happened suddenly and in such a tragic way,” said his niece Abrehet Gebremedhin.

Ethiopians sought refuge from war

As FOX31 reported, Hagos was among the first groups of people to seek refuge in Colorado after leaving the war-torn Tigray region of Ethiopia.

“You know, there are a lot of refugees because of the current genocide (in Ethiopia),” said Millete Birhanesmaskel, president of the Tigray Community of Colorado. “And to us, you think you made it here and you’re safe now, and to die in such a tragic way while you’re working and making an honest living is just really devastating.”

Hagos’ family said he supported his family by driving an Uber and was always there to help them.

“My uncle was always carefree and compassionate and always pushed me to be a better person and enjoy life,” said his nephew Yohannese Gebremedhin.

As FOX31 reported, Hagos helped pay for his nieces and nephews’ education back home in Ethiopia.

Hagos was buried here shortly after the service on Tuesday afternoon.