Joel Vargas-Ramirez, Mile High Murder No. 74: Habitual traffic offender held on investigation of murder one for using vehicle as deadly weapon

Lakewood cops say Joel Vargas-Ramirez didn't need a gun to kill someone.

The Lakewood Police Department describes Joel Vargas-Ramirez, 28, as a "habitual traffic offender." According to an LPD release, he fled the scene after striking his victim -- but he clearly didn't get too far.

Look below to get more details:

The Lakewood Police Department is currently investigating an incident that stemmed from an argument between several individuals. The incident occurred around 1:00 am this morning February 13, 2010 at the 5400 block of W Alameda. It appears that during the argument as one of the individuals was leaving the establishment they hit another one of the involved individuals with their vehicle. Consequently the victim was transported to a local area hospital where they were later pronounced dead as a result of the injuries sustained when hit by the vehicle. The driver of the vehicle, Joel Vargas-Ramirez, date of birth, 3-1-81 was then located by the Lakewood police department and taken into custody. Eventually he was taken to Jefferson County Jail and charged with first degree murder and driving as a habitual traffic offender. Investigators are continuing their investigation and additional charges may be added at the end of the investigation.

The name of the deceased victim is not being released at this time.