The Colorado football community is grieving the loss of a young quarterback whose life ended unexpectedly.
University of Colorado quarterback Dominiq Ponder died early Sunday morning after a crash in Boulder County.
The 23-year-old spent the past two seasons with the Buffaloes following his transfer from Bethune-Cookman. More details about the incident and the response from within the program have since emerged.
Details confirmed after fatal crash involving Colorado quarterback
Ponder died in a single-car crash at approximately 3 a.m. Sunday in Boulder County and was pronounced dead at the scene.
He was driving a 2023 Tesla Model 3 when he lost control on a curve, with the vehicle hitting a guardrail and an electrical line pole before rolling down an embankment and catching fire, and speed is suspected as a factor as the investigation continues.
The third-year sophomore from Opa Locka, Florida, appeared in two games last season after transferring from Bethune-Cookman and did not play in 2024.
Colorado is set to begin spring practice in Boulder on Monday as the program comes to terms with the loss.
Deion Sanders shares message after loss of young quarterback
Head coach Deion Sanders addressed the impact Dominiq Ponder had within the locker room and across the team. His message highlighted leadership and character rather than statistics.
“Dom was one of my favorites! He was Loved, Respected & a Born Leader. Let’s pray for all that knew him & had the opportunity to be in his presence. Lord, you’re receiving a good 1.”
The tribute reflected how Ponder was regarded inside the program, with emphasis on his presence and influence.
As preparations for the upcoming season continue, the focus remains on supporting his family and teammates during a difficult time.
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