A Colorado man, Troy Marcus Reynolds Jr., 34, was arrested in connection with the murder of his neighbor, Kathleen Mayo, 57, whose body was found in her apartment in Lone Tree earlier this month. Authorities say disturbing clues—including a “smiley face” drawn in blood at the scene—emerged before the suspect’s chilling confession.
What Happened
- On September 4, police responded to a welfare check at Mayo’s unit in the Aspect Apartments complex and discovered her body.
- Her body had two lacerations to the neck, and her left hand appeared to be “possibly missing.”
- A “smiley face” image—circle with two dots and a line underneath—was found drawn on Mayo’s bedroom door in what appeared to be blood.
- Similar symbols reportedly appeared in the hallway and apartment complex following the murder, some possibly made with ketchup or barbecue sauce.
The Arrest & Confession
- On September 12, Lone Tree Police arrested Reynolds, charging him with first-degree murder, burglary, animal cruelty, menacing, and tampering with evidence.
- In police documents, Reynolds reportedly confessed, telling investigators: “The 57-year-old … was me. It’s obvious.”
- The warrant says Reynolds lives upstairs from Mayo’s unit and claims he has lived as a recluse, interacting with others mostly through social media.
- Investigators later searched his apartment, where they allegedly seized a 9 mm gun, an autopsy saw, and 13 large knives.
- Reynolds was initially released but later re-arrested after surveillance allegedly caught him returning to the property.
- He is currently held without bond, and his next court hearing is set for December.
Local Law Enforcement Response
- The Lone Tree Police Department issued public statements that officers have been working daily—conducting interviews, collecting video, and following leads.
- In earlier public messaging, they had asserted there was “no known danger” to residents even as the investigation unfolded.
- The department also asked for the community’s help in providing any information about suspicious activity.
