Single Vehicle Rollover Turns Fatal
(Las Animas County, COLO) – This afternoon, at about 3:17 p.m., the Colorado State Patrol responded to the area of Interstate 25, exit 34 near Aguilar, Colorado, for reports of a vehicle that rolled into the center median.
The driver, a 33-year-old male, who was driving a grey Ford Expedition, was ejected from the vehicle during the rollover and pronounced deceased at the scene. He was the only occupant of the vehicle. Following the crash, a small brush fire broke out in the center median, but was quickly extinguished by first responders before it could spread.
All lanes of Interstate 25 are now open after briefly being closed for the crash investigation. Troopers will still be in the area concluding the investigation for an unknown amount of time.
The Colorado State Patrol is the investigating agency for this incident. This is an active and ongoing investigation, with no cause determined at this time.
Multi-Vehicle Crash On Highway 285
Four kids and one adult transported
(Park County, COLO) – This afternoon, at around 1:00 p.m., the Colorado State Patrol responded to a three-vehicle head-on crash involving a 2017 Kia occupied by one adult female and four juveniles, a 2022 Chevrolet Tahoe, and a 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan located on Highway 285 near the intersection of Roland Valley Drive.
The 2017 Kia and the 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan collided head-on on Highway 285, and the 2022 Chevrolet Tahoe collided with the vehicles shortly after. Occupants of the vehicles suffered various degrees of injuries, with multiple being transported to nearby medical facilities. Four juveniles were taken to a nearby medical facility as a precautionary measure. One adult female was transported by ground ambulance for suspected serious injuries.
The roadway was temporarily closed for the crash investigation, but was reopened at 2:28 p.m. The Colorado State Patrol is the lead investigating agency for this incident. The case is still active, with no cause determined at this time.
Avoid a Holiday Hassle this Week
Top 5 holiday crash causal factors of 2024 revealed
(Colorado) – Whether attending a Christmas Eve party or making the rounds to every family and friend celebration, Colorado drivers are encouraged to drive the speed limit and, if enjoying holiday “spirits,” make a plan. On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day 2024 (48 hours), Colorado State Troopers responded to 124 crashes around the State.
“Getting in a crash is likely the last thing people are thinking about after all the planning and excitement for the season,” stated Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “But if you are in the driver’s seat, keep your focus on the road. The biggest gift you can give is ensuring everyone you see on the road and in your vehicle arrives safely to celebrate.”
Looking at last year’s most serious crashes (injury and fatal), the top five causes are things that drivers can control.
- Speeding
- Impaired Driving
- Driving Distracted
- Lane Violation
- Failure to Yield Right of Way
Whether the roads are dry or snow-packed, drivers engage in risky behavior when driving above posted speed limits. High speeds dramatically increase crash severity and fatality risk, and slower speeds allow drivers time and space to react to animals, people and changes in the road.
When celebrating, it may also be tempting to enjoy alcohol or other impairing substances. Driving under the influence doesn’t just put your safety at risk; it carries serious legal, financial and personal consequences that can follow you long after the party is over.
Whether consuming an alcoholic beverage, cannabis products or other impairing substances, the Colorado State Patrol reminds you to prioritize responsibility and make a plan for a sober ride if socializing outside of your residence. Making a good decision “in the moment” while already intoxicated is unlikely. Don’t underestimate the consequences of this choice, and plan ahead for a sober ride.
Even one drink could be “the one,” and it can impact your ability to drive safely and result in a criminal charge.
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