.

Douglas County Fatal Crash

2011-04-13T00:43:00.000-06:00

Rock Slide & Highway 50 Road Closure

2011-02-14T20:20:00.000-07:00

COLORADO STATE PATROL
NEWS RELEASE
Troop 2A
600 West 3rd
Florence, CO 81226
Office: 719-784-3275

MSgt. William Holt
Corporal K.E. Galyean
Reference Number: 2A11-0276
Office: 719-539-4816
________________________________________________________
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Date: 02/14/11 Time: 8:20 P.M.

Rock Slide & Highway 50 Road Closure

At about 4:12 PM on February 14, 2011, Colorado State Patrol troopers from the Florence office and Salida office responded to a rock slide on Highway 50 near MP 244. This location is approximately 4 miles east of Coaldale and one mile west of Cotopaxi.

U.S. Highway 50 will be closed for an undetermined amount of time, due to the rock slide that has completely covered the roadway.

At the location of the rockslide, U.S. Highway 50 is covered by rocks of various sizes to a height of approximately 20 feet. The stability of the remaining rock face that the slide came from is unknown, and must be assessed before the debris can begin to be cleared.

There are no county or local roads that can be used to by-pass the closure. CDOT has placed road closures at the intersection of Hwy 50 & Hwy 9 (Royal Gorge), Hwy 50 & Hwy 69 (Texas Creek), and Hwy 50 & Hwy 285 (Poncha Springs). VMS boards have been activated. Motorists are advised to check the CDOT website at www.cotrip.org for further information.

###

Updated Release Head-on Crash on Hwy 85 In Douglas County

2011-01-25T15:00:00.000-07:00

**UPDATE**

Yesterday afternoon at about 4:12 p.m., Colorado state troopers were dispatched to a head-on crash on Highway 85 south of Titan Rd. in Douglas County. Troopers have determined that a Mercedes, driven by Connie Underwood, 56, of Castle Rock, was traveling southbound on Highway 85 when the vehicle entered a curve, went off the right side of the road before swerving into the northbound lanes and striking a northbound Jeep head-on.

The driver of the Jeep, Claude Bounds, 69, of Castle Rock, died at Swedish hospital after being airlifted from the crash scene with serious injuries. The Jeep’s front seat passenger, Carolyn Bounds, 64, of Castle Rock, died at Littleton Adventist Hospital shortly after the crash. A 4-year-old child in the Jeep suffered only minor injuries. All occupants of the Jeep were properly restraint with seatbelts, or child restraint systems.

The driver of the Mercedes was also transported Swedish Medical Center with serious injuries.

Troopers are investigating the use of alcohol and/or drugs as a contributing factor to this crash. Criminal charges will be filed pending further investigation.
Initial release sent out :1/24/11

Troopers Investigate Head-on Crash on Hwy 85 In Douglas County

2011-01-24T17:52:00.000-07:00

This afternoon at about 4:12 p.m., Colorado state troopers were dispatched to a head-on crash on Highway 85 south of Titan Rd. in Douglas County. Troopers have determined that a Mercedes was traveling southbound on Highway 85 when the vehicle entered a curve, went off the right side of the road before swerving into the northbound lanes and striking a northbound Jeep head-on.

The driver of the Jeep, an adult male, as been airlifted to Swedish hospital with serious injuries. The Jeep’s passengers, an adult female and a 3-year-old child have been transported via ambulance to area hospitals, also with serious injuries.
The female driver of the Mercedes was also taken to Swedish. Her condition is unknown.

Highway 85 is closed at this time during the investigation. It is anticipated that the road will be completely closed for at least one more hour, so motorists are encouraged to avoid the area. Traffic to the north of the crash scene is being diverted at Titan Rd. Motorist can use Highlands Ranch Parkway as an alternate route.

The exact cause of the crash is unknown at this time as the investigation continues.

CSP Seeks Witnesses in Fatal Hit and Run Crash Involving Pedestrian

2011-01-14T11:25:00.004-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Date: 1/13/11 Time: 8:00pm

The Colorado State Patrol is seeking information about a crash that killed a young woman tonight in Adams County. The woman was approximately one-half mile south of E. 152nd Ave. on Piccadilly Rd, just after 6:00pm, when she was struck. An unidentified vehicle fled the scene after the crash. Currently, the Colorado State Patrol is in contact with witnesses and the driver of at least one vehicle. It is unknown at this time what caused the pedestrian to be in this area or what driving actions, if any, may have contributed to the crash.

If you have any information, or can identify the vehicle that was travelling in this area just after 6:00pm, please call the Colorado State Patrol Dispatch Center at 303-239-4501.

Piccadilly Rd. remains closed from E. 152nd Ave. to E. 145th Ave. for on-scene investigation. Updates will be released as they become available.

Tour Bus Crash Gunnison County

2010-12-18T23:35:00.002-07:00

**UPDATE**

On 12/18/10 at approximately 8:13 P.M., Colorado State Troopers responded to a single vehicle rollover crash involving a tour bus on Highway 114 at milepost five, in Gunnison County.

A 2010 Vanh tour bus, operated by Gotta Go Express Trail Ways, was traveling westbound on Highway 114 when failed to negotiate a right turn. The bus lost control on the icy and snow packed roadway. The bus traveled off the right side of the roadway where it rolled onto its passenger side.

The driver of the bus, Fred Kornegay, age 47 from Texas was uninjured. The bus was occupied by 46 people. Seven of the occupants were taken by ambulance to Gunnison Valley Hospital with moderate injuries. An unidentified 11 year old female was transported by ambulance to St. Mary’s Hospital in Grand Junction with serious injuries. The remaining 38 occupants were taken by school bus to Gunnison Valley Hospital with minor injuries. The occupants ages range from 5- 71. It is unclear at this time the age or gender of those that were transported.

The bus transporting a church group from Denton Texas was traveling to Crested Butte when it crashed. The name of the church is Trinity United Methodist Church. Pastor John has set up a live broadcast at www.tumc-denton.org. Click live broadcast, then click Pastor John.

Highway 114 was closed while emergency crews were on scene.

The crash remains under investigation.

School Bus Crash In El Paso County Update

2010-11-10T00:19:00.001-07:00

COLORADO STATE PATROL

NEWS RELEASE
Public Affairs Unit
700 Kipling St. Denver, CO 80215
Trooper Nate Reid
Public Information Officer
(303) 239-4583________________

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Date: 11/10/10 Time: 10:10 A.M.

On 11/09/10 at approximately 9:30 p.m., Colorado State Troopers responded to a rollover crash involving a school bus on Highway 24, five miles east of Peyton, in El Paso County.

A yellow 2000 Bluebird school bus was traveling eastbound on Highway 24 when it attempted to slow for a vehicle in front of it causing the bus to lose control on the icy road. The bus began to spin counterclockwise and went off the north side of the roadway and down an embankment where it rolled onto its right side.

The bus driver, Les Dawson age 65 from Simla was uninjured. The bus was occupied by 24 students and five adults. One adult male was transported by helicopter to Penrose Main with moderate injuries. Eleven other occupants were transported to area hospitals with minor injuries.

The bus was returning to Calhan with a group of middle school children after being in Colorado Springs for a sporting event.

Highway 24 was temporarily closed while emergency crews were on scene.

Dawson has been charged with Careless Driving Causing Injury.

The Colorado State Patrol would like to remind drivers to slow down and give plenty of room between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you, especially during winter driving conditions.

###

2010-10-04T17:16:00.000-06:00

COLORADO STATE PATROL

NEWS RELEASE
Public Affairs Unit
700 Kipling St. Denver, CO 80215
Trooper Nate Reid
Public Information Officer
(303) 239-4583________________

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Date: 10/04/10 Time: 5:00 P.M.

COLORADO STATE TROOPERS ASSIST IN THE ARREST OF HOMICIDE SUSPECT FROM ILLINOIS

On 10/04/10 approximately 2:57 p.m., Colorado State Troopers assisted the East Moline Illinois Police Department in apprehending a homicide suspect Ryan Moore.

Moore is wanted for a homicide that occurred in East Moline Illinois on September 30th.

Investigators from the East Moline Police Department had reason to believe that Moore was traveling through Eagle County and contacted the Colorado State Patrol to assist with his arrest.

Troopers located a vehicle, a 2001 Saturn sedan, and identified the driver of that vehicle matching the description of Moore. Troopers briefly closed westbound Colorado 70 and initiated a traffic stop on the vehicle one mile west of Gypsum. The three male occupants of the Saturn were ordered out at gunpoint and were taken into custody without incident. The male driver was identified as Ryan Moore, age 21 of Illinois and booked into the Eagle County Jail. The two male passengers were interviewed and released.

The Colorado State Patrol was assisted by the Eagle County Sheriff’s Office and Vail Police Department.

Further information should be directed to the East Moline Police Department Captain Reynolds 309-752-1552.

###

Traffic Crash Kills 3 in Fremont County

2010-07-29T20:08:00.000-06:00

Colorado State Patrol
Press Release
http://www.csp.state.co.us/

Trooper Heather Cobler
Public Information Officer
303-289-4583

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Date: July 29, 2010 Time: 1900

A traffic crash kills 3 in Fremont County. On July 29, 2010 at 1900, a black Jeep Cherokee was traveling eastbound on Fremont County Road 123 approximately 1 mile east of Colorado Highway 67. The SUV crossed the westbound lanes of FCR 123, and came off the north shoulder. The vehicle rolled and came to rest approximately 50 feet north of FCR 123. 1 occupant was ejected from the vehicle and 2 occupants were partially ejected. All 3 occupants were pronounced dead on-scene.

Fremont County Road 123 will be closed for approximately 2 hours for on-scene investigation.

The occupants of the vehicle have not yet been identified.

Fatal crash I 25/ 58th ave. Adams County **UPDATE

2010-07-06T01:07:00.003-06:00

COLORADO STATE PATROL
NEWS RELEASE
Public Affairs Unit
700 Kipling St. Denver, CO 80215
Trooper Nate Reid
Public Information Officer
(303) 239-4583________________

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Date: 07/06/10 Time: 9:45 am

On 07/05/10 approximately 11:19pm Colorado State Troopers responded to a fatal crash on Interstate 25 at 58th Avenue, in Adams County.

At 11:11pm a 2008 Black Toyota Rav4 was reported by witnesses to be traveling south in the northbound lanes of traffic on I25 at Thornton Parkway. The Toyota struck at least one vehicle near Thornton Parkway on I25, then continued south in the northbound lanes until 58th avenue where it struck a 1991 Honda accord station wagon. The driver of the Honda attempted to steer away from the impact when the front of the Toyota struck the passenger side of the Honda.

The driver of the Toyota, Elizabeth Long, age 35 of Denver was transported to Denver Health Medical Center with minor injuries. The driver of the Honda has been identified as Jonathan Swanson, age 32 of Loveland was also transported to Denver Health with moderate injuries. The passenger of the Honda has been Identified as Mary Warren, age 22 of Ft. Collins was killed in the crash and pronounced dead at the scene by the Adams County Coroner’s Office.

Long was released from the hospital and booked into the Adams County Jail with the following charges:

• Vehicular Homicide
• Vehicular Assault (two counts)
• Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs or both
• Careless Driving
• Drove the Wrong Way of a Divided Highway
• Failed to remain on scene of Crash resulting in Serious Bodily Injury

Alcohol is suspected as contributing factor in the crash.

Northbound I25 was closed for several hours at I70 while the crash was investigated by Colorado State Troopers.

The Crash remains under investigation.

The crash near Thornton Parkway is being investigated by Northglenn PD.

The next of kin HAVE been notified.

###

Fatal Crash I70, Kit Carson County

2010-06-28T19:23:00.000-06:00

COLORADO STATE PATROL
NEWS RELEASE
Public Affairs Unit
700 Kipling St. Denver, CO 80215
Trooper Nate Reid
Public Information Officer
(303) 239-4583________________

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Date: 06/28/10 Time: 7:15 pm

On 06/28/10 approximately 10:31am Colorado State Troopers responded to a fatal crash on Interstate 70 at mile marker 430, seven miles west of Burlington, in Kit Carson County.

A 1998 International CDOT truck was eastbound I70 on the left shoulder, partially in the left lane conducting a weed spraying operation from a truck mounted sprayer. The truck was traveling at a low rate of speed. A 2007 Chevrolet was eastbound I70 in the left lane behind the truck. The front of the Chevrolet collided with the rear of the International.

The driver of the Chevrolet has been identified as Vernon Chute age 79 of Greenville Illinois. Chute sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. His front seat passenger also from Greenville Illinois, Norma Chute age 77 also sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Two minor passengers in the Chevrolet were airlifted to St. Anthony Central.

The driver of the International has been identified as Michael Vance age 53 of Burlington, was transported to Kit Carson Memorial hospital with minor injuries.

CDOT had signs placed on the roadway warning of the spraying ahead. The conditions were described as clear with unlimited visibility. The roadway where the crash happened was described as flat and straight.

The Colorado State Patrol is still investigating the crash.

The next of kin HAVE been notified.

###

CSP Thanks Good Samaritans

2010-06-03T13:54:00.003-06:00

COLORADO STATE PATROL
NEWS RELEASE
Public Affairs Unit
700 Kipling St. Denver, CO 80215

Trooper Heather Cobler
Public Information Officer
303-239-4583

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Date: June 3, 2010 Time: 1300

On June 2, 2010, at 3:31pm, two Good Samaritans in the area of Hwy 14 (Mulberry) and Greenfield Ct, rescued a man from drowning when his vehicle overturned and he became trapped under water. The man identified as Bradley Hill, 41, of Ft. Collins, was eastbound on CO 14 near Mp 139 driving a grey Saturn Sedan. He drove onto the right shoulder and came onto the south Frontage Road. Mr. Hill then drove into an irrigation canal where his vehicle rolled. The Saturn came to rest on its roof in the canal, with Mr. Hill inside. The canal was flowing full of water.

Witness-Good Samaritan Christopher Lyons entered the flowing water and found the driver submerged under the water inside the car. Mr. Lyons began to drag the driver out of the canal when a second Good Samaritan also entered the water and helped Mr. Lyons drag the driver out of the canal. Once on the bank, Mr. Lyons stated that the male driver “coughed up water after I brought him to the surface.” Poudre Fire Authority and Larimer County Dive Rescue responded and confirmed that no other bodies were in the car and assisted in the recovery of the car. The driver, Bradley P. Hill, was transported to the Poudre Valley Hospital, where he was treated for moderate injuries.

Mr. Christopher Lyons in currently in the US Army and is in transition between Fort Gordon, GA and Hawaii. He was in the state enrolling his son in Colorado State University, when he observed the vehicle roll into the canal. The second gentleman was Mr. Martin Murphy, a small business owner who was on his way home when he observed the vehicle in the canal. The Colorado State Patrol has been in contact with both gentleman who have agreed to share this information.

Mr. Hill was charged for careless driving and Driving under the Influence of Alcohol. While the Colorado State Patrol would like to thank both of the Good Samaritans for their quick actions and determination, we would also like to remind you of the dangers of drinking and driving. There may not be two Good Samaritans there to save you.

###

Law Enforcement Torch Run for the Special Olympics

2010-06-03T08:50:00.003-06:00

COLORADO STATE PATROL
PRESS RELEASE
Public Affairs Unit
700 Kipling St. #1100, Lakewood, CO 80215

Contact: Kathy Muffenbler
303-592-1361

For Immediate Release: June 3, 2010

DENVER, Colo. -- Nearly 200 Law Enforcement Torch Run® (LETR) officers and Special Olympics Colorado (SOCO) athletes will gather at the west steps of the State Capitol Thursday, June 3 at 11:30 a.m., to participate in the 2010 Flame of Hope Torch Run Unification Ceremony.

For the past month, hundreds of LETR officers have carried the Special Olympics Flame of Hope through their communities around the state, accumulating over 1,500 miles, in anticipation of the Special Olympics Colorado 2010 Summer Games. At the Capitol, three flames will be unified into a single torch, which will then head down the 16th Street Mall on its final journey to the Summer Games Opening Ceremonies Saturday, June 5, at the University of Northern Colorado-Greeley.

WHO:
-More than 200 Law Enforcement officers and Special Olympics Colorado athletes
-Colonel James Wolfinbarger, Chief of the Colorado State Patrol
-Captain Sylvia Sich of the Denver Police Department
-Special Olympics Colorado athlete Vince Egan and Special Olympics Colorado Global Messenger Laura Egan

WHAT: Three different legs of the torch run will reach the west steps of the State Capitol for the flame unification ceremony. The legs will run from the City and County Building through Civic Park. A short ceremony will include comments from special guest Colonel James Wolfinbarger plus Special Olympics Colorado athletes and LETR personnel.

Following the ceremony, officers will run with a single Flame of Hope down the 16th Street Mall and then head toward the University of Northern Colorado for the Special Olympics Colorado 2010 Summer Games.

WHEN: Thursday, June 3 at 11:30 a.m.

WHERE: West Steps of the State Capitol

WHY: This event, resulting from the efforts of more than 1,000 officers representing 150 agencies statewide, signifies communities working together to raise awareness for Special Olympics Colorado. People with intellectual disabilities are members of every community. The Law Enforcement Torch Run is committed to raising awareness for Special Olympics athletes and to showcasing their tremendous talents and abilities.The Flame Unification Ceremony also helps build excitement for the Special Olympics Colorado 2010 Summer Games June 5-6 at UNC-Greeley. Summer Games include competition in aquatics, track & field, gymnastics, powerlifting and soccer.

The Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics is the movement’s largest grassroots fundraiser and public awareness vehicle. The Torch Run began in 1981 in Wichita, Kansas, when then Police Chief Richard LaMunyon saw an urgent need to raise funds for and increase awareness of Special Olympics. Today, hundreds of citizens in the United States and more than 50 foreign countries can witness the Olympic Torch being carried by dedicated members of law enforcement through their communities on its journey to the Opening Ceremonies of the Special Olympics Games. At its most basic level, the Torch Run is an actual running event in which officers and athletes run the Flame of Hope to the Opening Ceremonies of local or state Special Olympics competitions.

The Colorado Law Enforcement Torch Run, which celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2009, raises money (over $250,000 annually) and awareness to support the 10,000 Special Olympics Colorado athletes who participate year-round in 20 different sports. Nearly 150 agencies and 1,000 law enforcement volunteers work throughout the year to accomplish this goal through a variety of vehicles -- from the actual Torch Run to events like Tip-a-Cop, Cops on Doughnut Shops, FirstBank Golf Tournament, Guardian of the Flames Hockey Tournament, Polar Plunge and many more.

Special Olympics Colorado provides children and adults with intellectual disabilities continuing opportunities to realize their potential, develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage and experience joy and friendship. There is no cost for the athletes to participate.

Fatal Crash Colorado Highway 392 (Weld County) **Update

2010-05-31T16:08:00.003-06:00

COLORADO STATE PATROL

NEWS RELEASE
Public Affairs Unit
700 Kipling St. Denver, CO 80215
Trooper Nate Reid
Public Information Officer
(303) 239-4583
______________________________

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Date: 06/01/10 Time: 1:15 PM

On 05/31/10 at approximately 2:23 PM Colorado State Troopers responded to a fatal crash on Colorado Highway 392 just east of Weld County road 21, in which 2 vehicles collided head on killing a driver and a passenger of one of the vehicles.

A 2000 white Ford F250 pickup was traveling eastbound Colorado 392 when it attempted to pass another vehicle in a legal passing zone. The Ford traveled into the westbound lane where it struck a 1996 Suzuki Esteem traveling west on Colorado Highway 392.

The male driver of the Suzuki has been identified as Stephen Smith, age 58 of Cheyenne Wyoming. The female passenger has been identified as Patricia Smith, age 55 of Cheyenne Wyoming. Both were pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the Ford has been identified as Landra Fabrizius, age 25 of Windsor was transported by helicopter to Medical Center of the Rockies with serious injuries.

Colorado Highway 392 was closed while Troopers investigated the crash.

The crash remains under investigation.

###

Rockslide Closes Highway 34 in Larimer County

2010-05-21T21:29:00.000-06:00

Colorado State Patrol
Public Affairs Unit
700 Kipling St.
Denver, CO 80215

Trooper H Cobler
303-239-4583
http://www.csp.state.co.us/

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: May 21, 2010 Time: 8:00pm

On May 21, 2010 at 5:29 pm the Colorado State Patrol responded to a crash on Highway 34 at Mile Post 75, approximately 1 mile west of Drake. Upon arrival it was determined that a rockslide in the area had caused this crash. A 2006 Kia Sedan was travelling westbound on Highway 34 when the rockslide began. The vehicle was struck a large sliding rock was disabled in the westbound lane. The driver of the vehicle, identified as Liliane Allen, of Wyoming, is uninjured.

State Highway 34 has been closed in both directions from Drake to Estes Park. Currently there are 8-10 large rocks in the roadway and significant damage to the eastbound lanes of Highway 34. The Colorado State Patrol is currently working with Estes Park Police Department, Loveland Fire Department, and the Colorado Department of Transportation, to mitigate the hazards posed by the rockslide, clear the roadway, and secure the remaining rocks on the hillside.

The Colorado Department of Transportation expects the roadway to be closed for the next several hours, and into tomorrow morning. Please use Larimer County Road 43 as an alternate route.

###

Trooper Cobler
Public Information Officer
303-239-4583

Erratic Driving Sparks Traffic Stop by ICE Agent

2010-05-21T21:18:00.001-06:00

Colorado State Patrol
Public Affairs Unit
700 Kipling St.
Denver, CO 80215
Trooper H Cobler
303-239-4583
http://www.csp.state.co.us/

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: May 21, 2010 Time: 8:00pm

The Colorado State Patrol Communications Center in Pueblo received a traffic complaint at 5:26 pm on May 21, 2010, concerning a white Ford pick-up that was driving in an erratic manner. The pick-up was northbound on I-25 at MP 155, in El Paso County. The complaint was reported by an ICE Agent, in an unmarked police vehicle. Due to the nature of the driving actions the ICE Agent attempted to contact the vehicle using emergency lights and siren. The pick-up failed to stop and was followed northbound on I-25, to the Castle Rock Area.

The driver of the vehicle called the Douglas County 9-1-1 Center, and informed the call-taker that he was not going to stop until a marked police unit arrived. Shortly after, a Douglas County Deputy arrived and the vehicle was stopped without incident.

Upon arrival of Colorado State Patrol Troopers the driver of the pick-up was arrested for the investigation of Driving Under the Influence. The driver of the pick-up has been identified as Mr. Troy Dejean, 31, of Denver.

The Colorado State Patrol would like to remind you to dial *CSP from any mobile phone, to report erratic and dangerous driving behaviors.

###

Trooper Cobler
Public Information Officer
303-239-4583

Fatal Crash on I-25

2010-05-05T16:09:00.002-06:00

Colorado State Patrol
District 2 Troop B
Colorado Springs, CO 80906

Trooper E C Zachareas
719-635-0385
Fax: 719-635-1802
http://www.csp.state.co.us/

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: May 5, 2010 Time: 0805 hours

The Colorado State Patrol is investigating a two-vehicles crash which resulted in one fatality on Colorado 25 near milepost 132 in El Paso County. At approximately 0805 hours this morning, a Toyota Tacoma, driven by 30-year-old Shaun Smith of Pueblo, was traveling North on Colorado 25 when he stopped due to traffic. As the Toyota was coming to a stop, a 1999 Subaru Legacy, driven by 22-year-old Daniel Woldtvedt of Sunburst, Montana, struck the rear of the Toyota at a high rate of speed. The Toyota traveled into the center median, where it overturned before coming to rest on its right side. After colliding with the Toyota, the Subaru began rotating counter-clockwise before it traveled into the center median, coming to rest on its wheels near the left edge of the northbound lanes.

Woldtvedt was extricated from his Subaru and transported to Memorial Hospital by helicopter. Although uninjured, Smith was transported to Memorial Hospital by ambulance as a precautionary measure, where he was treated and released. At 1035 hours, Woldtvedt succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at Memorial Hospital. Drugs and alcohol are not considered to be factors in the crash, which remains under investigation, but Woldtvedt appeared to bave been using his cell phone at the time of the crash, which may have distracted him.

###

Trooper Zachareas

District 2 Troop B

719-635-0385

Serious Injury Crash on I-70 at Wolcott (Eagle County)

2010-05-02T11:46:00.001-06:00

COLORADO STATE PATROL
NEWS RELEASE
Troop 4C
202 Centennial Street
Glenwood Springs, CO 81601

Contact: Sgt Rich Armstrong
Public Information Officer Reference Number:(970) 945-6198

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Date: 05/01/10 Time: 10:00 AM

Event: Serious Injury Crash on I-70 at Wolcott (Eagle County)

On 5/1/10 at approximately 01:30 AM, Deputy John Brownlee of the Eagle County Sheriff’s Office, was eastbound on I-70 at milepost 154, three miles west of Wolcott. Deputy Brownlee stopped to check for injuries of a crash on a bridge over the Eagle River. Deputy Brownlee stepped out of his patrol car, and made contact with Devin Obenauer, 30, from Northglenn, CO. Deputy Brownlee and Devin Obenauer then began to walk west on I-70, towards the Deputy’s patrol car that was parked on the right shoulder with all of its emergency lights activated.

At approximately 01:36 AM, a 1999 Subaru Outback, driven by Jamison Bair, 19, from Eagle, CO, lost control on the icy bridge and struck Deputy Brownlee. Deputy Brownlee was injured in this crash. Jamison Bair pulled over to the right shoulder after striking Deputy Brownlee.

A few moments later, Deputy Brownlee was struck again, by a 2006 Chevrolet Avalanche driven by Francisco Granados, 23, from Avon, CO. Francisco Granados continued driving eastbound on I-70, fleeing the scene. Francisco Granados was stopped at the Edwards exit by the Eagle County Sheriff’s Office and Avon Police Department.

Deputy Brownlee was transported to Valley View Hospital in Glenwood Springs with a broken leg.

The driver of the Subaru, Jamison Bair, was arrested for Felony Vehicular Assault, driving under the influence of alcohol, and careless driving causing serious bodily injury. Jamison Bair has been booked into the Eagle County Jail.

The driver of the Chevrolet Avalanche, Francisco Granados, was arrested for Felony Vehicular Assault, driving under the influence of alcohol, careless driving causing serious bodily injury, and fleeing the scene after causing bodily injury. Francisco Granados was booked into the Eagle County Jail.

The passenger in the Chevrolet Avalanche, Arzaga Moreno Antonio, 21, from Mexico, was arrested for possession of cocaine.

The driver of the vehicle in the original crash, Devin Obenauer, was not injured. She had been driving a 2003 Volkswagen Jetta when she crashed.

The Colorado State Patrol is investigated the crash and was assisted by the Western Eagle County Ambulance, Eagle Fire Department, Eagle County Sheriff’s Office, Avon Police Department, West Vail Shell, and Big Steve’s Towing.

The incident is under active investigation.

Eastbound I-70 was closed from 01:36 AM to 06:31 AM. Traffic was re-routed on Hwy 6 from Eagle to Edwards.

The Colorado State Patrol would like to remind everyone not to drink and drive. The consequences are real and devastating.

Fatal Crash Kills 2 in Weld County UPDATE

2010-04-16T16:53:00.012-06:00

COLORADO STATE PATROL NEWS RELEASE
Public Affairs Unit
700 Kipling St. Denver, CO 80215

Trooper Heather Cobler
Public Information Officer
(303) 239-4583

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: April 16, 2010 Time: 4:30pm

On April 16, 2010 at 12:43pm, state troopers were dispatched to a fatal crash on Weld County Road 49 (WCR 49) just south of Weld County Road 50 (WCR 50), in which a head-on collision between 2 semi’s killed both drivers.

Troopers have determined that a semi-truck was travelling northbound on WCR 49 just south of WCR 50. The truck crossed into the southbound lanes of WCR 49 and struck a water tanker truck travelling southbound. The driver of the northbound semi-truck was ejected from his vehicle. Both driver’s sustained fatal injuries.

The driver of the semi-truck travelling northbound has been identified as Shabbath Campbell, 27, of Johnstown, CO. The restrained driver of the southbound truck has been identified as Antero Alaniz Jr., 49, of Evans, CO.

“Today three people lost their lives in a two-hour period,” said Trooper Heather Cobler, spokesperson for the Colorado State Patrol. “This tragedy should remind us all, of the potential dangers on Colorado roadways, and how important it is to drive safely.”

This crash is still under investigation.

Next of Kin HAVE been notified.

###

Trooper Heather Cobler
Colorado State Patrol - Public Affairs Unit
303-239-4500

Fatal Crash - I25 Mile post 273 UPDATE

2010-04-16T16:11:00.001-06:00

COLORADO STATE PATROL NEWS RELEASE
Public Affairs Unit
700 Kipling St. Denver, CO 80215

Trooper Heather Cobler
Public Information Officer
(303) 239-4583

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: April 16, 2010 Time: 4:00pm

On April 16, 2010 at 2:38 pm, state troopers were dispatched to a fatal crash southbound I-25 at Mile post 273 in which an adult male was ejected from his vehicle and was subsequently struck by a vehicle travelling southbound.

A gray Toyota pick-up hauling a U-haul trailer was travelling northbound I-25 at Mile post 273. For unknown reasons the vehicle entered the center median and began to roll. The driver, identified as Jeffery Dubrava, 42, of Washington, Utah, was ejected from the vehicle. The driver was thrown into the southbound lanes of I-25. The driver then struck a gray sedan travelling southbound on I-25. The restrained driver of the gray sedan has been identified as Amy Caldwell, 49, of Wellington, CO.

A Colorado State Trooper administered CPR until medical personnel arrived. The driver was pronounced dead on-scene.

Southbound I-25 has been re-opened, however the crash is still under investigation.

###

Trooper Heather Cobler
Colorado State Patrol - Public Affairs Unit
303-239-4500

Fatal Crash - Jefferson County

2010-04-16T11:59:00.001-06:00

COLORADO STATE PATROL

News Release
Public Affairs Unit
700 Kipling St. Denver, CO 80215

Trooper Nate Reid
Public Information Officer
(303) 239-4583

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: **Update**

On 04-15-10 at approximately 5:46 PM Colorado State Patrol Troopers responded to an Auto-Pedestrian crash on eastbound Interstate 70 at milepost 255 in Jefferson County.

A 2007 Kenworth tractor-trailer was traveling eastbound Interstate 70 in the right lane. A pedestrian was on the right shoulder outside of a parked vehicle. The pedestrian walked into the right lane of eastbound Co 70, into the path of the Kenworth. The Kenworth then struck the pedestrian.

The male pedestrian sustained fatal injuries, and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The male driver of the Kenworth has been identified as Robert McAfoos Jr., 45, of Ft. Collins, CO. McAfoos was not injured.

The right lane of eastbound I-70 was closed for a short time while troopers investigated the crash.

The crash remains under investigation.
Next of kin have been notified.

CSP News Release on Colorado State Trooper's DUI Arrest

2010-03-22T16:33:00.001-06:00

COLORADO STATE PATROL

NEWS RELEASE
Public Affairs Unit
700 Kipling St. Denver, CO 80215

Trooper Ryan Sullivan
Public Information Officer
(303) 239-4583

PREPARED STATEMENT

This is news release confirming the incident from Douglas County this morning. On March 22, 2010 at approximately 7:00 a.m., Colorado State Patrol Trooper David Dolan was contacted by the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office for erratic driving on westbound C470 at Platte Canyon. Trooper Dolan was taken into custody for the investigation of Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol. The Douglas County Sheriff’s Department is conducting the criminal investigation in reference to this incident.

“I am very concerned and disturbed regarding the events of this morning. The Colorado State Patrol takes any violation of law and/or policy seriously and we will move quickly and thoroughly through this administrative investigation. While any violation of law is serious, this alleged act is very concerning given the nature of the mission of the Colorado State Patrol. We have a 75 year history of combating impaired and drunken driving and are deeply committed to eradicating this senseless crime on our roads, said Colonel James Wolfinbarger, Chief of the Colorado State Patrol.”

Trooper Dolan will be placed on unpaid administrative leave pursuant to Colorado State Personnel Rules. The Colorado State Patrol has launched a concurrent administrative investigation.

Colorado State Trooper David Dolan was hired January 22, 1989 and is a 21 year veteran of the patrol assigned to our Selections Unit out of Colorado Springs.

Photo attached.

###

A DUI Could Cost You a Pot O’ Gold this St. Patrick’s Day!

2010-03-18T10:53:00.000-06:00

DENVER, CO – The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) and statewide law enforcement agencies are warning Coloradans not to press their luck by drinking and driving this St. Patrick’s Day or the days leading up to it. The Colorado State Patrol and 72 law enforcement agencies are conducting a Heat Is On crackdown beginning at 6 p.m. on Friday, March 12 and continuing through 3 a.m. on Thursday, March 18.
Last year, three people were killed in alcohol-related crashes during the St. Patrick’s Day enforcement period in Colorado, and law enforcement agencies made 668 DUI arrests statewide.

“St. Patrick’s Day is one of those holidays when we know a lot of people are drinking,” said Col. James Wolfinbarger, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “We want people to have a good time, but we’re also encouraging people to designate a sober driver before the first pint is poured. Make the right decision before you head to the bar by thinking about how you will get safely home. The last thing you want is to end up in jail and spend thousands of dollars on a bad decision.”

The average cost of a DUI is $10, 270, including fines, defense fees, and a big insurance premium increase.

“It’s no secret that it is a tradition for many to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with alcohol, but we don’t want that celebration to spill over behind the wheel,” said Pam Hutton, governor’s representative for Highway Safety at CDOT. “Many people don’t realize the costs involved if you drink and drive. First and foremost is the possible cost of a human life, but there are also major monetary expenses. It’s not worth it.”

CDOT will be reminding St. Patrick’s Day celebrators that a DUI amounts to spending a “pot o’ gold” with a float in the Denver and Colorado Springs St. Patrick’s Day parades on Saturday. There will also be teams of people visiting Irish pubs and bars to remind drinkers to designate a sober driver or take public transportation.

Colorado State Patrol Troop 4B-Fruita plans to conduct a sobriety checkpoint on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17th. The entire Colorado State Patrol and the following 72 police and sheriffs’ departments have planned increased patrols and saturations patrols throughout the enforcement period.

Adams County SO
Alamosa County SO
Arapahoe County SO
Arvada PD
Auraria Campus PD
Aurora PD
Basalt PD
Boulder County SO
Boulder PD
Brighton PD
Broomfield PD
Castle Rock PD
Cherry Hills Village PD
Colorado Springs PD
Commerce City PD
Cortez PD
Crested Butte MO
Denver PD
Dillon PD
Douglas County SO
Durango PD
Eagle County SO (Gore Range DUI Task Force)
Edgewater PD
El Paso County SO
Erie PD
Estes Park PD
Evans PD
Firestone PD
Fort Collins PD
Fort Lupton PD
Fort Morgan PD
Fountain PD
Fraser/Winter Park PD
Frederick PD
Fremont County SO
Gilcrest PD
Gilpin County SO
Glenwood Springs PD
Grand Junction PD
Greeley PD
Greenwood Village PD
Idaho Springs PD
Jefferson County SO
Kiowa County SO
Lafayette PD
Lakewood PD
Larimer County SO
Littleton PD
Logan County SO
Longmont PD
Loveland PD
Mancos MO
Manitou Springs PD
Mesa County SO
Minturn PD
Montezuma County SO
Monument PD
Northglenn PD
Pagosa Springs PD
Pueblo County SO
Pueblo PD
Rio Blanco County SO
Saguache County SO
Steamboat Springs PD
Sterling PD
Summit County SO
Walsenburg PD
Washington County SO
Weld County SO (Task Force)
Westminster PD
Wheat Ridge PD
Woodland Park PD

###
bear kay
Colorado State Patrol
303.239.5774
303.594.2580/Cell
700 Kipling St.
Denver, CO 80215
bear.kay@cdps.state.co.us
Don't talk, just drive and buckle up!

Submitted by:
Trooper Ryan Sullivan

Good video with CSP that highlights the 'Move Over' law - from KDVR FOX 31

2010-03-03T08:35:00.002-07:00

Shocking crash caught on video highlights 'Move Over' law from FOX 31 Denver
"It's a top officer safety issue," said Trooper Ryan Sullivan, who took FOX31 on a ride-along to see just how few people actually follow the law. ... http://www.kdvr.com/news/kdvr-move-over-law-030210,0,534451.story

###
Submitted by:
Trooper Ryan Sullivan

Colorado Information and Analysis Center (CIAC) was recognized today as the 2010 Fusion Center of the Year

2010-02-24T10:17:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
23 FEB 2010
Contact: Lance Clem, 303-239-4415

In a national meeting today in New Orleans of intelligence fusion centers, the Colorado Information Analysis Center (CIAC) was awarded the prestigious 2010 Fusion Center of the Year Award by the Fusion Center Management Group which is affiliated with the federal Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Governor Bill Ritter, Jr., announced.

DHS cited CIAC’s work on the successful Zazi terrorism investigation and for CIAC’s work before and during the 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver.

Fusion centers analyze information on suspicious events from citizens and police officers as well as from national and international intelligence sources to determine which official agencies need to be notified for action. The 2010 award to CIAC involved competition among 71 fusion centers in the U.S.

“This coveted award underscores CIAC’s contributions not only to the Zazi investigation and to the DNC but also to regional public safety,” said Colorado State Patrol Major Brenda Leffler who supervises the CIAC for the CDPS Office of Homeland Security.

“Congratulations to the CIAC and all those whose hard and invaluable work is honored by this award,” Gov. Ritter said. “On behalf of the people of Colorado, thank you for your efforts to keep the public safe.”

Establishment of effective regional fusion centers grew from recommendations from the federal 9/11 commission. Colorado’s fusion center opened six years ago and has grown into a regional center serving the states of Colorado, Wyoming, Utah and New Mexico at the request of the other states. Intelligence analysts from numerous state and federal agencies work in CIAC.

The federal award noted, “The CIAC was recognized for exemplifying every aspect of a robust and mature fusion center. CIAC leadership has been a strong advocate organizing and supporting the national build out of the fusion center network. They were particularly recognized for their recent support to the Zazi case as well as their leadership during the 2008 National Democratic Convention.”

Suspicious activities can be reported by citizens to CIAC 24 hours a day at https://www.ciac.co.gov/

###
Submitted by:
Ryan Sullivan

News Advisory from the Colorado Department of Public Safety and the Colorado State Patrol

2010-02-23T14:23:00.000-07:00

What: Everything you might like to know about Colorado school safety.

The Colorado School Safety Resource Center (Colorado Department of Public Safety (CDPS) and Safe Communities - Safe Schools (Center for the Study and Prevention of Violence/University of Colorado-Boulder) are hosting a Regional Training on school safety.

Attached is the complete program and descriptions of the sessions.

• When and Where: February 25 -26 at the Adams 12 Conference Center, 1500 E. 128th Ave., Thornton, CO 80241

• How: We would suggest that you come on the first day/Feb. 25th as there will be several speakers that you should find of interest. They are listed below. Go to the Registration Desk and ask for Linda M. Kanan, Ph.D., Director, Colorado School Safety Resource Center.

• Who: Speaking on the first day, starting at 8:30 a.m. Peter Weir, Executive Director for CDPS, Hon. John Suthers, Attorney General, Colorado Department of Law and William Modzeleski, Associate Assistant Deputy Secretary of the U.S Department of Educations’ Office of Safe and Drug Free Schools.

Mr. Modzeleski will provide a National Perspective for Safe and Positive Schools at 9:15 a.m.

• NOTE: Complete program is attached. Media is welcome to attend any of the sessions on either day. Photo and Interview Opportunities

CONTACT:
Linda M. Kanan, Ph.D., Director, Colorado School Safety Resource Center.
Cell: 303.501.4331

Submitted by:
Trooper Ryan Sullivan

Head-On Crash on Higway 115 Kills Two from Ft. Carson

2010-02-14T12:13:00.003-07:00

Contact: Sgt. John Hahn 303-239-4583

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

On February 13, 2010 at about 5:15am, state troopers were dispatched to a motor vehicle crash involving two fatalities on Colorado 115 at milepost 34. The investigation thus far has determined that a black Audi sedan was traveling southbound on Colorado 115 when it crossed the roadway centerline and struck a northbound, Ford F-350 pickup head on. Some time following the initial collision, a Toyota hatchback traveling southbound struck both the Audi and the pickup.

The adult, male driver of the Audi was transported to Memorial Hospital in Colorado Springs where he remains in critical condition. The driver has been identified as 24-year-old Jordan Peters of Ft. Carson, Colorado.

The Audi’s two male passengers were pronounced dead at the scene. The victims have been identified as 23-year-old Kale Clay and 28-year-old Pawel Serafin, both of Ft. Carson.

The driver of the pickup, 48-year-old Jimmy Clift of Canyon City, Colorado was also transported to Memorial Hospital. His injuries are categorized as serious, but not life-threatening. The vehicle Clift was driving belongs to A-1 Barricade & Sign of Pueblo.

Both alcohol and speed on the part of the Audi driver are being investigated as having contributed to the crash. The crash remains under investigation at this time. Further details will be released as they become available.

###

Seat Belt Campaign Aims to Get More Rural Coloradans to Buckle Up

2010-02-12T12:14:00.001-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Heather Halpape, CDOT

February 10, 2010 303-757-9484 or 303-888-6319 (cell)

heather.halpape@dot.state.co.us

CSP PIO 303-239-4583

Seat Belt Campaign Aims to Get More Rural Coloradans to Buckle Up

Law Enforcement in 30 counties to conduct Click It or Ticket enforcement Feb. 18-24^th

Denver – In an effort to increase seat belt use and save lives on rural Colorado roadways, the Colorado State Patrol and 24 rural law enforcement agencies in 30 counties are mobilizing for a Click It or Ticket seat belt enforcement campaign, Feb. 18- 24^th. The stepped up seat belt enforcement will take place in the following counties: Alamosa, Baca, Bent, Cheyenne, Crowley, Delta, Elbert, Fremont, Garfield, Grand, Gunnison, Huerfano, Kiowa, Kit Carson, La Plata, Las Animas, Lincoln, Logan, Mesa, Moffat, Montezuma, Montrose, Morgan, Otero, Ouray, Phillips, Prowers, Routt, Washington, and Yuma.

“There is a false sense of security that you are safer driving on rural roadways because there’s less traffic,” said Pamela Hutton, chief engineer for the Colorado Department of Transportation. “But the fact is most traffic fatalities in Colorado occur on rural roads, and more than half of those killed are not buckled up. That’s why we’re focusing our efforts in rural areas to raise awareness about the importance of buckling up no matter where you are or how short the trip.”

In 2008, 54% of traffic deaths happened on rural Colorado roads. Of the 296 people killed in rural crashes, 52% were not wearing seat belts, compared to 35% who died unrestrained in urban crashes.

One contributor to higher fatality rates is a lower seat belt use in rural Colorado. An observational statewide seat belt study in 2009 showed that seat belt use was lowest in the Eastern and Western parts of the state with only 78% of rural drivers and passengers buckling up. That compares to an 83% usage rate along the Front Range.

“Wearing a seat belt is an important habit that can save your life,” said Chief Tom Chinn of the Montrose Police Department. “We don’t want to write tickets, but if it saves lives, we’ll do it.”

Young males and pickup truck occupants are among those at the greatest risk. In 2008, 7 out of 10 unbuckled deaths were men and half of them were ages 18 to 34. Also in 2008, 80 people were killed in pickup trucks and 69% were not wearing seat belts. Seat belt use in pickup trucks is the lowest in Colorado with just 68% buckling up.

“Pickup trucks are tough, but they definitely aren’t invincible and are much more likely to rollover in a crash,” said Jeff Schanhals, coordinator for the Northeast Colorado Regional Emergency Trauma Advisory Council (RETAC). “Rural emergency responders see the horrible consequences when people forget to buckle up and are ejected from the vehicle. The safest place to be in a crash is to remain in the car or truck, so please make it click every trip, every time.”

Colorado has a secondary enforcement law for adult drivers and front-seat passengers. Drivers can be ticketed for violating the seat belt law if they are stopped for another traffic violation. Click It or Ticket enforcement focuses on speeding and aggressive drivers. Drivers who are stopped for a traffic violation and are not using a seat belt will be ticketed. Seat belt fines are $65 per violation.

Colorado's child-passenger safety law includes both primary and secondary enforcement. The infant seat, child safety seat and seat belt provisions of the law are primary enforcement, meaning the driver can be stopped and ticketed if an officer sees an unrestrained or improperly restrained child in the vehicle. The booster seat portion of the law is secondary enforcement. The child-passenger safety law clearly defines child safety seat and seat belt use from birth through age 15. The public can find more information about the law and assistance with using child safety seats and seat belts properly by visiting www.carseatscolorado.com

The Colorado State Patrol and the following agencies and troops are participating in the Click It or Ticket enforcement:

Alamosa County SO

Bent County SO

Crowley County SO

CSP Troop 1A

CSP Troop 2A

CSP Troop 2C

CSP Troop 2D

CSP Troop 3B

CSP Troop 4A

CSP Troop 4B

CSP Troop 4C

CSP Troop 5A

CSP Troop 5B

CSP Troop 5C

Cortez PD

Elbert County SO

Garfield County SO

Fort Morgan PD

Fraser-Winter Park PD

Fremont County SO

Fruita PD

Gunnison PD

Holyoke PD

Huerfano County SO

Kit Carson County SO

Las Animas County SO

Mancos MO

Manzanola PD

Mesa County SO

Montrose PD

Morgan County SO

Silt PD

Steamboat Springs PD

Sterling PD

Washington County SO

Yuma PD

# # #

Sergeant John R. Hahn

Colorado State Patrol - Public Affairs Unit

303-239-4500

Under Colorado's Open Records Act (CORA), all e-mails sent by or to me on this state-owned e-mail account may be subject to public disclosure.

Fatal Crash - Boulder County

2010-02-05T16:39:00.001-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Date: 02-05-2010 Time: 10:20 a.m.

On 02/04/10 at approximately 7:58 p.m., Colorado State Troopers responded to a fatal crash on Colorado 170 (Marshall Drive) and 66^th Street in Boulder County.

A maroon 2004 Honda Civic was northbound on 66^th Street approaching CO 170. A silver 2002 Jeep Liberty was eastbound on CO 170. The Honda failed to stop at a stop sign and attempted to turn westbound onto CO 170. The front of the Jeep collided with the drivers side of the Honda.

The restrained male driver of the Honda has been identified as Joseph C. Neal, 18 of Longmont, CO. Neal sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at Avista Hospital.

A restrained male passenger in the Honda has been identified as John T. Combs, 18 of Boulder, CO. Combs sustained minor injuries and was transported to Avista Hospital.

The restrained female driver of the Jeep has been identified as Carla F. Estridge, 23 of Superior, CO. Estridge sustained minor injuries and was transported to Avista Hospital.

The accident is still under investigation.

Alcohol and drugs are not suspected as contributing factors.

Next of kin have been notified.

###

Under Colorado's Open Records Act (CORA), all e-mails sent by or to me on this state-owned e-mail account may be subject to public disclosure.

Colorado Traffic Deaths Drop to Lowest Level in Three Decades

2010-01-25T10:13:00.000-07:00

Contact: Stacey Stegman, CDOT

303-757-9362 or Stacey.stegman@dot.state.co.us
Colorado State Patrol PIO – 303-239-4583

Colorado Traffic Deaths Drop to Lowest Level in Three Decades

DENVER – The number of people killed in motor vehicle crashes in Colorado in 2009 may have reached the lowest level in three decades, according to preliminary data released today by the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT). In 2009, 464 people were killed in traffic crashes in Colorado, a 15 percent decline from 2008 when 548 people died on Colorado roadways. Last year marked the first time fatalities dropped below 500 since 1988 when 497 people were killed. Colorado has experienced a steady decline in motor vehicle fatalities since a recent peak of 743 deaths in 2002, despite an increase of nearly 4,200 million vehicle miles traveled in 2008 compared to 2002.

“It’s difficult to call it ‘good news’ when so many people still died last year on Colorado roadways, but the progress the state has made in saving lives is truly encouraging,” said Governor Bill Ritter. “Collaboration and partnerships across the state have resulted in incredible advances in public education, enforcement, engineering and emergency services in Colorado. Our challenge will be to continue this positive trend into the new decade, but it can’t be done without more people wearing seat belts and driving sober.”

Information on restraint use and alcohol-related crashes is not yet available for 2009. In 2008, 40 percent of all traffic fatalities were alcohol-related, 33 percent of vehicle occupants killed were not wearing seat belts, and 18 percent of fatalities were motorcyclists.

“High-visibility enforcement campaigns such as the ‘Heat Is On’ and ‘Click It or Ticket’ have helped remind people of the consequences of breaking the law and the tragic outcome when lives are lost needlessly,” said Col. James Wolfinbarger, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “The Colorado State Patrol and law enforcement agencies across the state have been sending a clear message that dangerous behaviors like aggressive driving, speeding and drunk driving are not acceptable. And buckling up is the single most important thing you can do increase your odds of surviving a crash.”

In 2009 the Colorado State Patrol experienced a 12 percent reduction in fatal crashes on roads patrolled by state troopers, translating to 41 fewer persons killed or lives saved. This comes on the heels of a nearly 35 percent reduction in fatalities from 2001 to 2008 on roads under the jurisdictional authority of the State Patrol and has led to the lowest number of traffic deaths investigated by troopers in a decade.

“Education has been a huge factor in saving lives, but there have also been great advances in engineering that have made our roadways safer,” said Pamela Hutton, CDOT’s Chief Engineer and Director of the Office of Transportation Safety. “Everything from the installation of rumble strips and cable medians to targeted safety improvements on roadways identified as high accident locations have prevented crashes or significantly increased the chances of surviving if one occurs.”

The passage of traffic safety legislation has also played a role in reducing fatalities. For example, Colorado’s Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) laws, which set limits and requirements on new teen drivers, are credited with helping reduce by half the number of young people age 15 to 20 killed in crashes each year.

Safety experts are exploring ways that current laws can be strengthened to save additional lives, including increasing the required age for booster seats, expanding GDL laws, and passing a primary seat belt law in Colorado. Currently, adult drivers can be ticketed for violating the seat belt law only if they are stopped for another traffic violation first.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), states with primary seat belt laws have an average seat belt use rate that is 13 percent higher than secondary enforcement states. Colorado’s current seat belt use rate is 81.1 percent, below the national average of 84 percent. According to NHTSA, if Colorado increased its seat belt use to 90 percent, an additional 32 lives would be saved each year and the state would also save $111 million annually.

# # #

Submitted by:
Trooper Ryan Sullivan

20 car pile up, closes Interstate 70

2010-01-25T10:11:00.000-07:00

On January 23, 2010, at approximately 1635 hours, Troopers responded to a multi car crash on eastbound I-70 in Glenwood Canyon. The crash occurred just east of Bair Ranch Rest Area, shutting down the interstate.
A Trooper was investigating two separate crashes involving 6 cars, when a multi car crash occurred behind him. A total of 20 vehicle's, including 3 semi trucks, were involved in the multiple car crash. Six people were transported to Valley View Hospital with injuries. One female passenger had exited her vehicle after the initial collision, and was struck by another vehicle, sustaining a broken pelvis. The rest of the injured persons were treated and released with minor injuries. This crash is still under investigation.

Eastbound I-70 was closed for four hours, and westbound I-70 was shut down to one lane near the crash scene for approximately one hour. All traffic was back to normal at 2015 hours.

The Colorado State Patrol, WECAD, CDOT, Eagle County Fire, Big Steve's Towing, and Lucas Towing responded to the scene. The Glenwood Springs Police Department, Garfield County Sheriff's Office and CDOT assisted with the road closure.

***The Colorado State Patrol would like to remind our citizens to please take the time to buckle up and slow down during poor weather conditions.***

###
Capt. R. Duran

(970) 945-6198

Submitted by:
Trooper Ryan Sullivan

PIKES PEAK REGION DUI TASK FORCE NEWS RELEASE

2010-01-12T14:30:00.001-07:00

Contact:
Sergeant L R Smith
Colorado State Patrol
719-544-2424
Lloyd.Smith@cdps.state.co.us
________________________________________________________
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Date: 01-11-2009 Time: 12:00 p.m.

Law enforcement officers from across the county meet with deputy district attorneys for recognition, training and a ride along DUI saturation patrol resulting in 10 DUI arrests

COLORADO SPRINGS – On Friday night, January 8, 2010, seventy-six representatives from the Colorado State Patrol, El Paso County Sheriff’s Office, Colorado Springs Police Department, Fountain Police Department, Pikes Peak Community College Police Department and deputy district attorneys from the fourth judicial district met for an evening of training followed by a 14 officer DUI Saturation Patrol.

The training began with an update on the option of Ignition Interlock devices for use in sentencing by Karen Teel with Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD). MADD also served food to the seminar participants, which was donated by Dominos Pizza. The State Patrol recognized the Statewide “Top DUI Enforcement Trooper”, Trooper Brent Butler of Troop 2B. Trooper Butler arrested more impaired drivers than any other Trooper in the entire state. The group also recognized Designated Driver of Colorado Springs who provided over 2200 free rides last year to intoxicated patrons preventing potentially 2200 drunken drivers from driving home. The ride home is free to the intoxicated patron of bars that sponsor the program as well as any active duty military personnel.

Jim Bentley, with the fourth Judicial District hosted a discussion on best practices in documenting and investigating impaired drivers.

After the training 14 deputy district attorneys were given the opportunity to ride along with officers from all five police departments as they made routine traffic stops and investigated impaired drivers. The Saturation Patrol of 14 officers with DA riders stopped 66 vehicles for traffic violations and arrested 10 suspected drunk drivers in the 2 hour saturation patrol. The BAT van was available for evidentiary breath and blood alcohol testing. One driver, arrested for drunk driving, had been arrested for drunk driving twice in the preceding three months, while her DUI cases have not made it to the court system, her driver’s license was already suspended twice. Initially upon being contacted by the officer – she provided a false name resulting in a felony charge. Since Thanksgiving 12% of all 1631 statewide DUI arrests, have been in El Paso County.

Sgt Smith of the Colorado State Patrol said: “This multi-jurisdiction saturation patrol is an excellent time for officers with different agencies to meet, work together and share ideas. It is a great opportunity for these officers to build rapport with the deputy district attorneys who will be prosecuting DUI cases.” A similar saturation patrol is being planned for the summer.

###

444 People Started Off the New Year with a DUI

2010-01-11T15:20:00.000-07:00

Colorado State Patrol PIO – 303-239-4583 Heather Halpape, CDOT
303-757-9484 or 303-888-6319 (cell)

444 People Started Off the New Year with a DUI

Downloads of “R-U-Buzzed” iPhone App top 100,000

DENVER – The Colorado State Patrol and more than 50 law enforcement agencies across the state reported making 444 DUI arrests during the recent New Year’s Eve “Heat Is On” enforcement period, Dec. 30, 2009 through Jan. 4, 2010. That brought the total number of DUI arrests made during DUI enforcement periods since Thanksgiving to 1,631.

“There were plenty of warnings given over the holiday season that drinking and driving would not be tolerated,” said Col. James Wolfinbarger, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “Most people got the message, but there were still hundreds of people who recklessly put lives in jeopardy by driving impaired. As we begin a new year, let’s all make a resolution to never get behind the wheel after drinking alcohol.”

Thousands of people have taken action to educate themselves and plan ahead when drinking alcohol. The “R-U-Buzzed BAC Calculator” iPhone app, launched by CDOT in early December, has been downloaded 103,400 times from the Apple App Store and has remained in the Top 25 Free Healthcare & Fitness apps since its introduction. The free app allows users to calculate their estimated blood alcohol concentration (BAC) based on how many drinks they have consumed, how long they have been drinking, and their gender.

“We’re glad to see people are interested in using this high-tech tool to educate themselves about how much alcohol it can take to affect their ability to drive safely,” said Pamela Hutton, CDOT’s governor’s representative for highway safety. “When in doubt, the safest and smartest option is to always designate a sober driver.”

According to preliminary reports, nine people were killed on Colorado roadways in alcohol-related crashes between Nov. 23 and Jan. 4, 2010. That is down slightly from the time period in 2008-09 when 12 people were killed in drunk driving crashes.

The following agencies and CSP Troops made the highest number of DUI arrests during the New Year’s enforcement period:

Denver PD 55

Colorado Springs PD 42

Larimer County SO 17

Adams County SO 16

Aurora PD 16

CSP Troop 2B Colo. Spgs. 16

Lakewood PD 15

CSP Troop 2D Pueblo 12

Jefferson Co. SO 12

Boulder PD 11

CSP Troop 1C Castle Rock 11

CSP Troop 1D Adams 11

The next “Heat Is On” DUI enforcement period will occur over Super Bowl weekend, Feb. 5-8th.

###

For more information on the DUI enforcement period results and local law enforcement statistics, visit www.dot.state.co.us/trafficsafety/ and click “Reports” on the header. Choose “Heat is on! Enforcement,” select the enforcement period and agency and click “View Report.”

Auto Theft Investigators Designate "Puffer Week"

2010-01-08T12:12:00.002-07:00

CONTACT: CSP PIO 303-239-4583

This year Colorado Auto Theft Investigators (CATI) is designating the week of January 10-16 as “Puffer Week.” CATI is working in conjunction with Denver Metro Auto Theft Team (DMATT), Jefferson County Regional Auto Theft Team (JCRATT), Northern Colorado Regional Auto Theft Team (NCRATT), Southwest Auto Theft Team (SWATT), Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority (CATPA) and local law enforcement agencies throughout the state to increase awareness about auto theft and prevent future crime. Law enforcement agencies are asked to concentrate efforts on enforcing the unattended motor vehicle statute (C.R.S. 42-4-1206) by giving warnings and/or citations to motorists that leave their cars running unattended. CATI will keep track of the number of contacts that local law enforcement makes throughout the week and report those statistics.

According to national statistics, a motor vehicle is stolen approximately every 26 seconds in the United States.

AUTO THEFT PREVENTION TIPS

ü Never leave your vehicle unattended with the engine running

ü Always remove your keys from the ignition and the interior of your vehicle

ü Remove your valuables from your vehicle when it is unoccupied

ü Always close and secure your garage door with the engine off

ü Always report suspicious activity to the police

###

Colorado State Patrol - Public Affairs Unit

303-239-4583

Under Colorado's Open Records Act (CORA), all e-mails sent by or to me on this state-owned e-mail account may be subject to public disclosure.

Don’t Ring in the New Year with a DUI

2009-12-29T08:26:00.000-07:00

Contact:

Heather Halpape, CDOT
303-757-9484 or 303-888-6319 (cell)
Heather.Halpape@dot.state.co.us

Colorado State Patrol PIO – 303-239-4583

Don’t Ring in the New Year with a DUI. Plan Ahead Before you Party.
Thousands Using “R-U-Buzzed” iPhone App and PlanAheadColorado.com

DENVER – With New Year’s Eve quickly approaching, the Colorado Department of Transportation and statewide law enforcement agencies want to remind people to ring in the New Year safely by planning ahead for a sober ride. Increased “Heat Is On” DUI enforcement will be under way from Dec. 30 through Jan. 4, 2010 by the Colorado State Patrol and more than 50 law enforcement agencies.

Many Coloradans have already taken action to plan ahead before holiday parties. The “R-U-Buzzed BAC Calculator” iPhone app, launched by CDOT in early December, has already been downloaded 35,898 times from the Apple App Store and has remained in the Top 25 Free Healthcare & Fitness apps since its introduction. The free app allows users to calculate their estimated blood alcohol concentration (BAC) based on how many drinks they have consumed, how long they have been drinking, and their gender. While the calculator is only a guide, the app suggests that having a sober driver is the only safe option, and it will even provide the phone number of a local cab company with just a tap of the screen.

A useful Web site, www.PlanAheadColorado.com, offered by CDOT has also been used by thousands of Coloradans to find information on ways to prevent drinking and driving. Users can find participating locations along the Front Range that are offering FREE cab vouchers worth $5, as well as hotels offering discounted rooms, public transportation information and locations where they can park overnight without getting a ticket or towed.

While thousands of Coloradans are making good choices and safe plans before celebrating with alcohol, some are not choosing wisely. More than 600 people were arrested for DUI between Dec. 1 and Dec. 11, during increased holiday party DUI enforcement. In addition, another 587 drivers were arrested for impaired driving during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.

“Tens of thousands of people are finding tools to help them make the right choice to designate a sober driver,” said Col. James Wolfinbarger, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “Whether it’s the iPhone app, Plan Ahead Web site, talking with friends or calling a cab, they are choosing safety for themselves and others on the road. Unfortunately, we still see drivers who don’t bother to take others into account, not to mention the fines and even jail time they’ll face; or worse, hurting or killing someone during this special time of year.”

According to preliminary reports, seven people were killed on Colorado roadways in alcohol-related crashes between Thanksgiving and Dec. 27th. That’s down nearly 50 percent from the same time period last year when 13 people died in alcohol-related crashes in Colorado.

The following law enforcement agencies will be participating in increased DUI enforcement from Dec. 30 – Jan. 4:

Adams County SO
Arapahoe County SO
Arvada PD
Aurora PD
Avon PD
Chaffee County SO
Cherry Hills PD
Colorado Springs PD
Commerce City PD
Cortez PD
Crested Butte MO
CSP Troop 1-A Limon
CSP Troop 1-D Adams County
CSP Troop 2-A Canon City
CSP Troop 2-B Colorado Springs
CSP Troop 2-C Lamar
CSP Troop 2-D Pueblo
CSP Troop 2-E Gaming (Cripple Creek)
CSP Troop 3-A Greeley
CSP Troop 3-B Sterling
CSP Troop 3-C Fort Collins
CSP Troop 4-A Fruita
CSP Troop 4-B Craig
CSP Troop 4-C Glenwood Springs
CSP Troop 5-A Durango
CSP Troop 5-B Alamosa
CSP Troop 5-C Montrose
CSP Troop 6-A Golden
CSP Troop 6-B Frisco
CSP Troop 6-C Broomfield
CSP Troop 6-D Gaming (Blackhawk-Central City)
Denver PD
Douglas County SO
Durango PD
Edgewater PD
El Paso County SO
Elbert County SO
Erie PD
Evans PD
Fountain PD
Freemont County SO
Glenwood Springs PD
Grand Junction PD
Greenwood Village PD
Gunnison PD
Jefferson County SO
Lafayette PD
Lakewood PD
Larimer County SO
Littleton PD
Loveland PD
Mesa County SO
Milliken PD
Montezuma County SO
Northglenn PD
Parker PD
Pitkin County DO
Pueblo County SO
Saguache County SO
Sanford PD
Steamboat Springs PD
Summit County SO
Teller County SO
Weld County SO
Woodland Park PD

###

For more information on the DUI enforcement periods and to view detailed enforcement plans by agency, visit www.dot.state.co.us/trafficsafety/ and click “Reports” on the header. Choose “Enforcement Period Plans,” select the appropriate period and click “Report.” To view DUI arrests totals after the enforcement periods start, click “Reports” on the header. Choose “Heat is on! Enforcement,” select the enforcement period and click “View Report.”

For more information on the DUI enforcement period results and local law enforcement statistics, visit www.dot.state.co.us/trafficsafety/ and click “Reports” on the header. Choose “Heat is on! Enforcement,” select the enforcement period and agency and click “View Repor

NEWS RELEASE-Fatal Crash on E470 near Parker Road

2009-12-18T10:10:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Date: 12-18-2009 Time: 10:00 a.m.

On December 17, 2009 at approximately 9:00 p.m., Colorado State Troopers responded to a fatal crash on southbound E470 near Parker Road in Douglas County. A white 2008 Freightliner street sweeper, actively sweeping the left shoulder and part of the lane was southbound on E470. A silver 2006 Toyota Tacoma was also southbound on E470 before rear ending the street sweeper. After the collision the street sweeper collided with the concrete bridge before both vehicles came to rest.

The restrained driver of the street sweeper has been identified as Paul Mascarenas, age 35 of Commerce City, Colo. The restrained passenger has been identified as Madison Mascarenas, age 12 of Commerce City, Colo. No injuries were sustained.

The unrestrained driver of the Toyota has been identified as Mark Johnson, age 39 of Castle Rock, Colo. Johnson sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene by the Douglas County Coroner.

The crash and subsequent investigation led to a closure of southbound E470 for approximately 3 ½ hours.

The crash remains under investigation.

Alcohol or drugs are not suspected as contributing factors.

Next of kin have been notified.

###

Submitted by:
Trooper Ryan Sullivan

Public Assistance Needed on Auto vs. Pedestrian Crash in Adams County

2009-12-09T08:37:00.001-07:00

On December 8, 2009 at approximately 10:35 a.m., Colorado State Troopers responded injury crash on westbound Interstate 76 and Interstate 25 in Adams County. A blue 2008 GMC Sierra was westbound on Interstate 76. The GMC spun out of control and travelled off the left side of the highway. The GMC pickup impacted the side of a brown 1978 Ford pickup which was stopped on scene of a previous non-injury crash.

The GMC pickup then struck two pedestrian who had previously occupied the Ford pickup. The GMC continued off the left side of the highway and impacted a concrete barrier.

The restrained driver of the GMC has been identified as Billy Le, age 53 of Denver, Colo. Le sustained minor injuries and was transport to via ambulance St Anthony Hospital North in Westminster.

The pedestrians have been identified as Pedro Salcido-Perez, age 39 of Brighton, Colo and Sergio Villanueve, age 17 of Brighton, Colo. Salcido-Perez sustained serious injuries and Villanueve sustained moderate injuries. Both were transported via ambulance to Denver Health.

Alcohol or drugs are not suspected as contributing factors.

The leading contributing factor in this crash was the driver traveling too fast for the road conditions. The Colorado State Patrol would like to remind motorists to slow down and use caution as they drive through inclement conditions and when approaching an accident or stranded motorist.

The crash remains under investigation and an update will follow as more information is obtained. Anyone who may have witnessed this accident or driving actions prior to this accident is encouraged to contact the Colorado State Patrol at 303-239-4501.

###
Submitted by:
Trooper Ryan Sullivan

Fatal Crash in Weld County

2009-11-25T10:08:00.000-07:00

On November 24, 2009 at approximately 4:05 p.m., Colorado State Troopers responded to a fatal crash on westbound Interstate 76 at milepost 51 in Weld

County. A 1992 red Freightliner with semi trailer was traveling westbound on Interstate 76. A 1966 white GMC Farm Truck was also traveling westbound on Interstate 76. The Freightliner went to pass the GMC on the left, when it struck the left rear of the vehicle. This caused the GMC to travel off the right side of the roadway and roll.

The restrained driver of the Freightliner has been identified as Edward Rose, age 64 of Akron, Colo. Rose sustained no injuries.

The unrestrained driver of the GMC has been identified as Norman Troudt, age 73 of Wiggins, Colo. Troudt sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene by the Weld County Coroner.

The crash and subsequent investigation led to a closure of westbound Interstate 76 for several hours.

Alcohol or drugs are NOT suspected as contributing factors

Edward Rose has been cited for Careless Driving Causing Death.

Next of kin have been notified.

###

Six Teens Injured in Crash on Interstate 70 near Rifle

2009-11-25T10:07:00.000-07:00

On November 24, 2009 at approximately 12:50 p.m., Colorado State Troopers responded to the serious injury crash on westbound Interstate 70 at milepost 86. A silver 1998 Nissan Sentra was westbound before losing control. The vehicle traveled off the roadway through a deer fence. The vehicle then became airborne over a dry creek bed. The vehicle struck the side of an embankment and rolled.
The restrained driver has been identified as Juan Moreno-Zavala, age 17 of Glenwood Springs, Colo. Moreno-Zavala sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to St Mary's Hospital in Grand Junction.

The five passengers have been identified as:

· Jonathan Aguirre-Anchondo, age 19 of Glenwood Springs, Colo. He sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to St Mary's Hospital in Grand Junction. (Restrained)

· Ivan Moreno-Zavala, age 18 of Glenwood Springs, Colo. He sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to St Mary's Hospital in Grand Junction. (Unrestrained and ejected)

· Valaria Castillo, age 16 of Glenwood Springs, Colo. She sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to St Mary's Hospital in Grand Junction. (Unrestrained and ejected)

· Mavel Rodriguez, age 15 of Glenwood Springs, Colo. She sustained minor injuries and was transported Valley View Hospital in Glenwood Springs. (Unrestrained and ejected)

· Jenny Lisseth-Medin, age 16 of Glenwood Springs, Colo. She sustained minor injuries and was transported Valley View Hospital in Glenwood Springs. (Unrestrained and ejected)

Alcohol or drugs are not suspected as contributing factors. However, speed is being investigated as a possible contributing factor.

The crash is still under investigation.

The Colorado State Patrol reminds motorists to ensure they are always wearing their seatbelts when traveling along Colorado's highways.

###
Submitted by: Trooper Ryan Sullivan

News Advisory for Tuesday/November 17th--moved to CSP Academy ...Same time

2009-11-16T17:43:00.002-07:00

UPDATE: News Advisory for Tuesday/November 17th--Moved to CSP Academy at 10:30 a.m.

Note: The News Briefing hosted by Colonel Wolfinbarger, Chief of the Colorado State Patrol has been moved to the Colorado State Patrol Academy, same time: 10:30 a.m.Will be held in the parking area outside the Academy front entrance.

The Colorado State Patrol car involved in the crash where two Troopers were seriously injured this past Sunday will be at the site.

Joining Colonel Wolfinbarger in support of this important life and death safety issue, as well as being available for interviews, include:

· Peter Weir/Executive Director Colorado Department of Public Safety

· Ms. Stacey Stegman/Spokeswoman for the Colorado Department of Transportation

· Dave Daley/Battalion Chief for the South Metro Fire Rescue Authority

· Dave Anderson/Division Chief of Training, North Metro Fire Rescue

· John Connolly/President Elect of the Towing & Recovery Professionals of Colorado

· Ms. Emily Tompkins/Executive Director Colorado Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD)

As previously stated by Chief Wolfinbarger, "The CSP would appreciate the assistance of the news media to help us deliver this very serious and important messages to Colorado motorists.

This past weekend three CSP Troopers were seriously injured when they were hit by careless drivers.

Colonel Wolfinbarger and other traffic safety officials from CDOT, fire and other emergency services, have a serious message for motorists driving our highways. This is especially important during the coming months when weather conditions can create hazardous situations for drivers.

Where: Colorado State Patrol Academy

15055 South Golden Road

Golden, CO 80401

When: Tuesday/November 17th

10:30 a.m.

Contacts: Sgt. John Hahn, 303.239.4574 or cell 303.961.2935 or Trooper Ryan Sullivan, 303.239.4583

Two Colorado State Troopers Struck and Injured Investigating Crash near Aurora

2009-11-16T13:25:00.000-07:00

On November 15, 2009 at approximately 5:10 p.m., two Colorado State Troopers were involved in a serious injury crash on Highway 225 near Parker Road in Arapahoe County.
The troopers were investigating a previous crash on northbound Highway 225. Both troopers were standing on the left shoulder of the roadway. A gold 1998 Ford Explorer lost control on the icy roadway. The Ford Explorer struck the silver 2008 Ford Crown Victoria Patrol Car parked on the left shoulder. The patrol car was pushed into the center concrete median barrier and into both troopers. The Ford Explorer then struck a green 2001 Nissan Pathfinder that was involved in the previous crash.

The Colorado State Troopers have been identified as Trooper Ron Greasley and Trooper Jason Burger. Trooper Greasley a 14 year veteran of the state patrol was transported via ambulance to Aurora South Hospital with serious non-life threatening injuries. Trooper Jason Burger a 1 year veteran of the state patrol sustained moderate injuries.

The driver of the Ford Explorer has been identified as Edilberto Garcia-Castro, age 30 of Aurora, Colo. The passengers were identified as Brenda Marcelo, age 26 and Fernanda Garcia, age 4 both from Aurora, Colo. No injuries were sustained and all were properly restrained in the vehicle.

The driver of the Nissan has been identified as Andrew Chernyak, age 47 of Aurora, Colo. The passenger has been identified as Lesya Chernyak, age 43 of Aurora, Colo. No injuries were sustained and both were properly restrained.

Edilberto Garcia-Castro has been charged with the following:

• Careless Driving causing Injury

• Exceeded Safe Speed for Conditions

• Drove without a Valid Driver’s License

Alcohol or drugs are NOT suspected as contributing factors. The leading contributing factor in this crash was the driver traveling too fast for the road conditions. The road conditions at the time were described as wet and icy.

The Colorado State Patrol would like to remind motorists to slow down and use caution as they drive through inclement conditions and when approaching an accident scene.

This accident came within 48 hours of Trooper Randy White being struck by a pickup while investigating a crash near Fruita, Colorado. Trooper White suffered severe injuries, but thankfully they were also not life-threatening.

With a total of three troopers being hit this weekend, CSP will host a press conference tomorrow morning to highlight the dangers faced not only by our officers, but other public safety and public service officials who work to make our roads safer. The press conference will be held at CSP Headquarters at 10:30am and will involve officials from CSP, fire service/EMS, CDOT and from the towing and recovery community.

###
Submitted by:
Trooper Ryan Sullivan

Colorado State Trooper Struck and Injured Investigating Crash near Fruita

2009-11-14T11:38:00.001-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Date: 11-14-2009 Time: 11:15 a.m.

On November 13, 2009 at approximately 8:00 p.m., a Colorado State Trooper was involved in a serious injury crash on Highway 6 and 20 Road in Mesa County. The trooper was investigating a previous crash on eastbound Highway 6. The trooper wearing a reflective vest was partially in the lane of traffic collecting evidence. The trooper was then stuck by a black 2004 GMC Sierra. Both the vehicle and trooper came to rest in the lanes of Highway 6.

The driver of the GMC has been identified as Tracy Conklin, age 47 of Grand Junction. Ms. Conklin sustained no injuries.

The Colorado State Trooper has been identified as Trooper Randy White. Trooper White a 24 year veteran of the state patrol was transported via ambulance to Saint Mary’s Hospital in Grand Junction with serious non-life threatening injuries.

Alcohol or drugs are NOT suspected as contributing factors.

This crash is still under investigation.

Charges are pending. More information will be released as it becomes available.

This crash is another reminder of the dangers that of our officers encounter on a daily basis. We ask the public to keep Trooper White and his family in your thoughts during this difficult time.

###
Submitted by Trooper Ryan Sullivan

Public Assistance Needed - Fatal Hit and Run - Weld County

2009-11-11T12:06:00.001-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Date: 11-11-09 Time: 12:05 PM

On 11-11-09 at approximately 07:34 AM Colorado State Patrol troopers responded to a report of a fatal hit and run crash on Weld County Road 37 just south of Weld County Road 8 near Lochbuie in Weld County.

The body of an adult female pedestrian was discovered this morning near WCR 37 by a school bus driver. The investigation has revealed that the female was the victim of a hit and run crash. At this time, investigators do not have any suspect or vehicle information. It is believed the hit and run crash happened some time between 7:30 PM on 11-10-09 and 7:30 AM on 11-11-09.

The female pedestrian has been identified as Jannelle C. Devisser, 28 of Brighton, CO. Devisser sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Anyone with information about this tragic incident is asked to call the Colorado State Patrol at 970-506-4999.

Next of kin HAVE BEEN NOTIFIED.

MOTORISTS HELP MAKE I-70 SAFER TO DRIVE WITH NEW WEBSITE

2009-11-09T15:30:00.000-07:00

Denver, CO – A new website, www.I-70WildlifeWatch.org, was launched today by Colorado Wildlife on the Move, a coalition of businesses, state agencies, and non-profit organizations working together to decrease the incidence of wildlife-vehicle collisions on our state’s roadways. This innovative website will allow motorists to report wildlife they see along Colorado’s Interstate 70 between Golden and Glenwood Springs.

Motorists who see wildlife along this stretch of I-70 will be able to use the website to identify the general location where they saw the animal. After the general location is identified, the user can activate a map on the website to select the specific sighting location down to a tenth of a mile. This information will later be used by wildlife biologists and the Colorado Department of Transportation to identify locations on the interstate where animals are most frequently trying to cross.

“The first goal of I-70WildlifeWatch.org is to educate drivers about wildlife crossing issues along I-70,” said Paige Bonaker, staff biologist at Center for Native Ecosystems. “But the public will also help us identify wildlife crossing hotspots so we can plan safety measures, including public education, for these locations.”

Beth Garrison, who commutes on I-70 between Vail and Frisco every day, has been posting her wildlife sightings on the website so for several days as part of a test phase of the website. “I see wildlife along the highway all the time, and I’ve often worried about them being hit on the road and causing a hazard,’ said Garrison. ‘The website has been really easy to use. I’m glad there is something I can do to help.”

November and December are the months with the highest rate of wildlife-vehicle collisions in Colorado. Colorado Wildlife on the Move has been reminding motorists to watch out for wildlife in the fall for several years.

“Fall is the time of year when wildlife, especially deer and elk, are beginning to migrate between their summer and winter habitats,” said Julia Kintsch, owner and conservation ecologist at ECO-resolutions. “More often than not, wildlife must cross roads to get between important habitat areas to support their daily and seasonal needs.”
According to the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), November sees more traffic crashes involving wildlife than any other month of the year. During the period from 1995 through 2005, there were 4,323 such crashes in November and 2,918 such crashes in December. (The lowest number of crashes during this time period occurred in February, at 1,390.) These accidents resulted in property damage, injury or, in some instances, fatalities. (It’s important to note that these numbers represent only those crashes that were reported to enforcement agencies—the actual number of wildlife-vehicle collisions is much higher.)
In that 11-year period, there were 30,245 total wildlife-vehicle collisions resulting in property damage on all Colorado roadways, according to CDOT data, collected from enforcement agencies statewide. The Rocky Mountain Insurance Information Association (RMIIA) reports that the average cost per claim is $2,800.
“The cost to repair vehicles has increased by more than 43 percent during the past decade,” said Carole Walker, executive director of the RMIIA. “So, when we are able to raise people’s awareness and reduce the number of wildlife-vehicle collisions on Colorado roadways that helps make a dent in what we all pay for auto insurance, as well as make our roads safer.”

“Wildlife, whether its elk, bear or bighorn sheep, are a tremendous resource for the state of Colorado,” says Tyler Baskfield, communications manager for the Colorado Division of Wildlife. “We urge motorists to slow down to minimize the impact on this resource, especially on the more sensitive species like Canada lynx. Dawn and dusk are especially important times for drivers to be cautious, as that is when animals are most active and hard to see.”

"The question that we are most asked about driving and a wildlife crossing in Colorado is, 'What do I do if I am driving and a deer runs out?'," said Colonel James Wolfinbarger, Chief of the Colorado State Patrol. "Stay alert and slow down when you see wildlife crossing signs. The posted signs indicate that this section of the road has experienced up to five animal car crashes per mile, per year."
The CSP advises motorists that see animals on the road to slow down, gently apply your breaks, stay in your lane -- don't swerve, and hope that the deer or other wildlife will just continue on its way.
Other tips include:

·Always wear your seatbelt.
·Scan ahead and watch for movement along roadsides.
·At night, watch for the shining eyes of animals that reflect car headlights and look for more animals.
·Look for other animals when a single one is spotted.
·Be ready for animals to change directions.
·Remember that animals are most frequently on the move at dawn and dusk.

"With the launch of this innovative pilot program, we hope that this website will remind motorists to be careful while they are driving along Colorado's roadways, as well as provide important information," said Colonel Wolfinbarger. "It goes without saying that we would all like to see fewer injuries and fatalities from crashes with wildlife in Colorado."
“The safety of the traveling public is CDOT’s primary focus—it is one of the Core Values that all stakeholders in the I-70 Mountain Corridor study agree need to be factored in to every effort and project that is conducted between Denver and Glenwood Springs,” CDOT I-70 Mountain Corridor Manager Peter Kozinski said. “The I-70 Wildlife Watch website will support this focus by encouraging citizens to help CDOT and its partners better understand where wildlife is attempting to cross I-70. Together we can better plan and implement measures to keep wildlife and the traveling public safe.”

The Colorado Wildlife on the Move campaign includes members from the local non-profit Center for Native Ecosystems, the independent consulting firm ECO-Resolutions, the Colorado Department of Transportation, Colorado State Highway Patrol, Colorado Division of Wildlife and Rocky Mountain Insurance Information Association.
####

Fatal Accident - Northbound Colorado 25 Milepost 266 - Larimer County

2009-11-06T16:58:00.001-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Date: 11-06-09 Time: 4:55 PM

On 11-06-09 at approximately 1:10 PM Colorado State Patrol troopers responded to a two-vehicle accident on northbound Colorado 25 milepost 266 in Larimer County.

A white 1991 Ford Econoline van was northbound on Colorado 25 at milepost 266. A red 2001 Kenworth tractor-trailer was also northbound on Colorado 25. The Kenworth slowed for traffic when the Ford impacted the rear of the Kenworth.

The unrestrained male driver of the Ford has been identified as Dale T. Walter, 51 of Loveland, CO. Walter sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the Medical Center of the Rockies..

The restrained male driver of the Kenworth has been identified as Joseph N. Roper, 54 of Fort Lupton, CO. Roper was not injured.

Alcohol/drugs are not suspected of being contributing factors.

Next of kin HAVE BEEN NOTIFIED.

Arrest of Suspected Police Impersonator - El Paso County

2009-10-29T16:53:00.001-06:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Date: 10-29-09 Time: 4:50 PM

The Colorado State Patrol is seeking assistance from the public on locating motorists who may have been stopped or contacted by a police impersonator in the El Paso County area.

On 10/28/09 at approximately 9:02 PM the Colorado State Patrol communications center received a call from a female driver who believed that a police impersonator was attempting to pull vehicles over on Interstate 25. State Patrol Troopers were dispatched to the area.

At approximately 10:20 PM, State Troopers located the vehicle a 1995 gray, full-size Cadillac sedan. The vehicle was equipped with flashing white strobe lights in the front windshield and flashing white and yellow strobe lights in the rear window. The suspect was wearing a uniform with security guard patches and a gold security badge with the word "Chief" printed at the top. On his belt he had handcuffs and a black toy pistol.

The suspect, a 24-year-old white male from Colorado Springs, Colorado, was arrested and booked into El Paso County Jail for Felony Police Impersonation and operating an uninsured motor vehicle. The Colorado State Patrol is not releasing the suspect's name or booking photo at this time pending further investigation. The suspect identity and photo will be released as the investigation progresses. The vehicle has been impounded by the State Patrol.

The Colorado State Patrol is working with law enforcement agencies in the surrounding counties, as well as the Colorado Information Analysis Center (CIAC) to determine if the suspect is linked to other such cases. If a motorist has been stopped recently by someone they suspect as a police impersonator matching this description, they are asked to call the Colorado State Patrol at 303-239-4501.

Fatal Construction Zone Crash - Eastbound C470 near Broadway - Douglas County

2009-10-26T09:14:00.002-06:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Date: 10-24-09 Time: 4:30 PM

On 10-24-09 at approximately 04:15 AM Colorado State Patrol troopers responded to a construction zone accident on eastbound Colorado 470 just east of Broadway (milepost 20) in Douglas County.

A black 2007 Dodge Charger was eastbound on C470 in the right lane. There was a closure of the right lane due to a construction project. An Orange 1996 ELI Pelican street sweeper was in the construction zone when the front of the Dodge struck the rear of the street sweeper. The collision caused the ejection of an occupant from the street sweeper. The Dodge then struck other construction related equipment before coming to rest in the right lane.

The unrestrained male driver of the Dodge has been identified as Christopher T. Chialtas, 40 of Highlands Ranch, CO. Chialtas sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at Littleton Hospital.

The injured male construction worker has been identified as Donald F. Pacheco, 37 of Pueblo, CO. Pacheco sustained serious injuries and was transported to Littleton Hospital.

Alcohol IS suspected of being a contributing factor.

Next of kin HAVE BEEN NOTIFIED.

Fatal Accident - WB Colorado 6 Milepost 276- Jefferson County

2009-10-22T12:16:00.001-06:00

On 10-22-09 at approximately 01:14 AM Colorado State Patrol troopers responded to a two-vehicle accident on westbound Colorado 6 milepost 267 in Jefferson County.

A green 1997 BMW 528i was westbound on Colorado 6 at milepost 267 at a high rate of speed. A white 2005 J4500 MCI bus owned by Casino Transport, Inc. was also westbound on Colorado 6. The front of the BMW collided with the rear of the MCI bus.

The unrestrained male driver of the BMW has been identified as Stephen V. Sanchez, 39of Lakewood, CO. Sanchez sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene..

The restrained male driver of the MCI bus has been identified as John Dulz, 63 of Golden, CO. Dulz was not injured in the crash.

There were no passengers on the bus at the time of the crash.

Alcohol and speed are suspected of being contributing factors.

Next of kin HAVE BEEN NOTIFIED.

State Launches High School PSA Contest During National Teen Driver Safety Week

2009-10-21T12:47:00.001-06:00

Denver – As part of National Teen Driver Safety Week, the student council at Abraham Lincoln High School in Denver is challenging fellow teens, as well as adults, to turn off their cell phones when they get behind the wheel. The students also plan to enter a Public Service Announcement (PSA) contest launched today by Colorado’s Teen Motor Vehicle Leadership Alliance, a group of government agencies and private entities focused on keeping young drivers safe. The theme of the PSA contest is the upcoming ban on the use of cell phones by teen drivers under age 18, which goes into effect Dec. 1st. The law also includes a ban on text messaging only for drivers age 18 and older.

“There are a lot of students who don’t know about the new law, so it is important that they become aware of it and also about the dangers of distracted driving,” said Jennifer Cole, student council president at Abraham Lincoln High School. “We’re trying to get the word out to ‘power down’ your phone as soon as you get in the car. We know that breaking the habit of texting or calling behind the wheel isn’t going to be easy, so it’s important do it now -- not only to avoid a ticket, but to save lives.”

Last year in Colorado, 48 young people age 15 to 20, were killed in motor vehicle crashes. That’s down more than 50 percent from the 112 fatalities for this age group in 2002. Safety experts credit the decline in deaths to the strengthening of the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) law in Colorado, which includes passenger restrictions, requires seat belt use and sets a curfew on new teen drivers. Safety advocates hope the new ban on cell phone use by teen drivers under 18 will save even more lives.

“The first year that a teen holds their driver’s license is the most dangerous time, and it’s critical that distractions like cell phones be eliminated so that they can gradually build skills and confidence to be safe drivers,” said Lt. Col. Doyle Eicher of the Colorado State Patrol. “But teens certainly aren’t the only ones who put themselves and other at risk by talking or texting while driving. Adults need to take responsibility and set an example by turning off their phone in the car to take away the temptation of using it. Change your voicemail message to include that ‘you may be driving’ so they should leave a message and you’ll call back.”

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly 6,000 people died in 2008 in crashes involving a distracted or inattentive driver, and more than half a million were injured. And on any given day, more than 800,000 vehicles are driven by someone using a hand-held cell phone.

Today, State Farm Insurance presented special awards to State Rep. Claire Levy of Boulder and Sen. Bob Bacon of Fort Collins for sponsoring Colorado's new law aimed at protecting drivers. “These legislators have taken steps to help reduce the number of teen crashes and ultimately save lives here in Colorado,” said Chester Ferguson, State Farm Vice President-Operations, Colorado.

Members of the Teen Motor Vehicle Leadership Alliance hope the PSA contest will encourage high school students to help inform their peers of the dangers of distracted driving and the new law. The contest is open to all high school age students across Colorado. There are three categories of PSAs to enter, including video, radio and print ads. The winning entries will be distributed to statewide media to begin running in December. There will also be prizes awarded to the top entries. The student with the best video PSA will receive a Sony Digital camcorder donated by Best Buy and a $100 gift card to Wal-Mart. The winner of the top radio PSA will get an Apple iPod Nano donated by The Bret Kay Happiness Foundation, and a flip video camcorder donated by Master Drive. The winner of the print PSA will receive $500 from the Rocky Mountain Insurance Information Association and four tickets to the Denver Museum of Contemporary Art. The deadline to enter is Nov. 16th. More information and contest rules are available at www.coteendriver.com.
# # #

Auto vs. Pedestrian Fatal Crash in Arapahoe County

2009-10-21T08:40:00.001-06:00

On October 20, 2009 at approximately 9:12 p.m., Colorado State Troopers responded to a fatal crash on eastbound Iliff Avenue and Quebec Street. A white 1993 Chevrolet Geo was traveling eastbound on E. Iliff Ave through the green light at Quebec.

Two pedestrians were running northbound across Iliff Ave east of the intersection. The driver observed one of the pedestrians and slowed. The second pedestrian entered the right lane and was struck by the Chevrolet.

The restrained driver has been identified as Kimberly Hert, age 47 of Aurora, Colo. Hert sustained no injuries.

The adult male pedestrian sustained serious injuries and was transported via ambulance to Aurora South Hospital where he was later pronounced dead by an attending medical physician.

The crash remains under investigation and an update will follow as more information is obtained.

Next of kin have NOT been notified.

###

Teens Urge Drivers to “Power Down” during National Teen Driver Safety Week

2009-10-20T12:10:00.001-06:00

WHAT:

To mark National Teen Driver Safety Week, students from Lincoln High School and members of Colorado’s Teen Motor Vehicle Leadership Alliance are urging teen drivers and adult drivers to “power down” their cell phones while behind the wheel. The group will also kick off a high school PSA contest about the dangers of distracted driving and the new cell phone ban for teen drivers, which goes into effect Dec. 1st. State Farm will present the legislative sponsors of the bill, Rep. Claire Levy and Sen. Bob Bacon, with special certificates of appreciation.

Photo/Video Opportunity:

An impressive number of students—more than 40 members of Lincoln High School’s student council—will unveil a special display made of old cell phones and wear t-shirts they’ve designed with safe driving messages. The students will challenge other teens to spread the word about the importance of seat belts and the dangers of using a cell phone while driving.

WHO:

•Lt. Col. Doyle Eicher, Colorado State Patrol
•Heather Halpape, PR Manager for Safety Programs, CDOT
•Laura Martinez, East High School student and member of Youth Partnership for Health
•Jennifer Cole, Lincoln High School student council president
•John Debella, State Farm Insurance
•Rep. Claire Levy and Sen. Bob Bacon, sponsors of HB 09-1094

WHEN:

Wednesday, Oct. 21, 10:30 a.m.

WHERE:

Abraham Lincoln High School, 2285 S Federal Blvd, Denver, CO 80219
Weather permitting; the event will take place outside on the patio off the Southeast parking lot (Federal & Iliff). The back-up location is in the auditorium just inside the main front entrance.

# # #

.

Douglas County Fatal Crash

Rock Slide & Highway 50 Road Closure

**Updated Release** Head-on Crash on Hwy 85 In Douglas County

Troopers Investigate Head-on Crash on Hwy 85 In Douglas County

CSP Seeks Witnesses in Fatal Hit and Run Crash Involving Pedestrian

Tour Bus Crash Gunnison County

School Bus Crash In El Paso County **Update**

Traffic Crash Kills 3 in Fremont County

Fatal crash I 25/ 58th ave. Adams County **UPDATE

Fatal Crash I70, Kit Carson County

CSP Thanks Good Samaritans

Law Enforcement Torch Run for the Special Olympics

Fatal Crash Colorado Highway 392 (Weld County) **Update

Rockslide Closes Highway 34 in Larimer County

Erratic Driving Sparks Traffic Stop by ICE Agent

Fatal Crash on I-25

Serious Injury Crash on I-70 at Wolcott (Eagle County)

Fatal Crash Kills 2 in Weld County **UPDATE**

Fatal Crash - I25 Mile post 273 **UPDATE**

Fatal Crash - Jefferson County

CSP News Release on Colorado State Trooper's DUI Arrest

A DUI Could Cost You a Pot O’ Gold this St. Patrick’s Day!

Good video with CSP that highlights the 'Move Over' law - from KDVR FOX 31

Colorado Information and Analysis Center (CIAC) was recognized today as the 2010 Fusion Center of the Year

News Advisory from the Colorado Department of Public Safety and the Colorado State Patrol

Head-On Crash on Higway 115 Kills Two from Ft. Carson

Seat Belt Campaign Aims to Get More Rural Coloradans to Buckle Up

Fatal Crash - Boulder County

Colorado Traffic Deaths Drop to Lowest Level in Three Decades

20 car pile up, closes Interstate 70

PIKES PEAK REGION DUI TASK FORCE NEWS RELEASE

444 People Started Off the New Year with a DUI

Auto Theft Investigators Designate "Puffer Week"

Don’t Ring in the New Year with a DUI

NEWS RELEASE-Fatal Crash on E470 near Parker Road

Public Assistance Needed on Auto vs. Pedestrian Crash in Adams County

Fatal Crash in Weld County

Six Teens Injured in Crash on Interstate 70 near Rifle

News Advisory for Tuesday/November 17th--moved to CSP Academy ...Same time

Two Colorado State Troopers Struck and Injured Investigating Crash near Aurora

Colorado State Trooper Struck and Injured Investigating Crash near Fruita

Public Assistance Needed - Fatal Hit and Run - Weld County

MOTORISTS HELP MAKE I-70 SAFER TO DRIVE WITH NEW WEBSITE

Fatal Accident - Northbound Colorado 25 Milepost 266 - Larimer County

Arrest of Suspected Police Impersonator - El Paso County

Fatal Construction Zone Crash - Eastbound C470 near Broadway - Douglas County

Fatal Accident - WB Colorado 6 Milepost 276- Jefferson County

State Launches High School PSA Contest During National Teen Driver Safety Week

Auto vs. Pedestrian Fatal Crash in Arapahoe County

Teens Urge Drivers to “Power Down” during National Teen Driver Safety Week

Updated Release Head-on Crash on Hwy 85 In Douglas County

School Bus Crash In El Paso County Update

Fatal Crash Kills 2 in Weld County UPDATE

Fatal Crash - I25 Mile post 273 UPDATE