A tragic incident unfolded early Thursday morning on Colorado Highway 115, near Penrose, where one man lost his life following a crash involving his Subaru Outback and a snowplow. According to the Colorado State Patrol (CSP), the collision occurred around 7:19 AM at milepost 18, prompting immediate response from emergency services.
The deceased individual, whose identity has yet to be disclosed, collided head-on with the snowplow operated by a 45-year-old driver from Cañon City. Reports indicate the snowplow was engaged in snow removal operations, travelling southbound, when the Outback, traveling northbound, lost control due to unfavorable road conditions.
Witnesses reported the road was snow-packed and slushy, likely contributing to the Outback's loss of control. After spinning around, the driver’s side of the Outback struck the front of the snowplow. The impact was severe, and the driver of the Outback was pronounced dead at the scene. The Fremont County Coroner’s Office will provide identification following proper notifications.
While the Outback's driver suffered fatal injuries, the snowplow operator sustained only minor injuries and declined medical transport to the hospital. Both vehicles were solely occupied by their drivers, highlighting the tragic nature of this incident.
The CSP is currently conducting a thorough investigation through its Vehicular Crimes Unit to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the crash. The crash not only caused considerable disruption on the highway, leading to its temporary closure, but it also underscored the hazardous driving conditions brought on by inclement weather.
Earlier on the same day, the region faced challenges due to a storm affecting roads across southeastern Colorado, resulting in multiple accidents along highways and interstates. Snow quickly blanketed the roads, leaving many motorists stranded and contributing to property damage from various collisions. The CSP reported they had responded to several crashes, including one non-injury incident on I-25, where one of their marked vehicles was struck by another motorist. Thankfully, neither the trooper nor the other driver reported any injuries from this secondary crash.
The CSP is urging motorists to stay vigilant during winter weather conditions, emphasizing safety recommendations to drive slowly and cautiously. "Motorists should recognize during these conditions to drive slowly and cautiously," the CSP stated. This caution is of utmost importance as Colorado weather can change rapidly, leading to unexpectedly dangerous conditions. Drivers are reminded to check road conditions on sites like cotrip.org before setting out on their journeys during winter storms.
Following the fatal collision on Highway 115, the CSP reminded the public of the challenges posed by winter weather, reiterative the call for drivers to remain prepared for the rapid changes and sometimes treacherous conditions on the roads.
The community is left to mourn the loss and to reflect on the hazards of winter driving. While investigations continue, local authorities are emphasizing road safety and the need for greater awareness during snowy conditions.
Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses and more information becomes available about the identity of the deceased and any potential measures to improve road safety amid winter storms.