A Pillar of the Arvada Community

In the mid-20th century, Arvada, Colorado, was a burgeoning community where neighbors knew each other by name, and local businesses thrived on personal relationships. Among these establishments stood Witt Cash Grocery, a modest store attached to the residence at 5050 Carr Street. Owned and operated by Rosetta Witt, a widow who had lost her husband, Charles D. Witt, in 1958, the store was more than just a place to purchase daily necessities; it was a cornerstone of the community. Charles had been a businessman in his own right, transitioning from a garage operator to managing the grocery store alongside Rosetta after 1937. Together, they dedicated over four decades to serving the residents of Arvada, fostering a sense of trust and camaraderie.

The Fateful Morning of October 2, 1961

The tranquility of Arvada was shattered on the morning of October 2, 1961. At approximately 10:44 a.m., authorities responded to a distressing scene at Witt Cash Grocery. Seventy-four-year-old Rosetta was discovered fatally shot within her store, and an undisclosed amount of money was missing from the cash register, indicating a robbery had taken a deadly turn. The violent act against a cherished community member sent shockwaves throughout the town, leaving residents grappling with fear and sorrow. ...Read More