BRIGHTON, Colo. — A fatal crash at Highway 85 and 136th Ave. closed the intersection for over two hours Wednesday morning.
The incident occurred around 3:20 a.m., according to a news release from the Brighton Police Department. One man was confirmed dead at the scene.
Investigators from the Traffic Safety Unit reported that a man driving a Volkswagen SUV northbound on Highway 85 drifted off the road, striking a stoplight pole at the intersection with E. 136th Ave. The driver was ejected upon impact and pronounced dead despite first responders' efforts to save him. The coroner's office will release the driver's identity once family notification is completed.
The crash also ignited a grass fire, which was extinguished by Brighton Fire Rescue. Morning commuters were advised to seek alternative routes, with the Brighton Police suggesting Interstate 76 if possible.
As of 6:50 a.m., eastbound and westbound lanes of the intersection reopened; however, northbound and southbound lanes of Highway 85 remained closed as of 10:38 a.m. Wednesday.
Anyone with information about the crash is encouraged to contact the Brighton Police Department tip line at 303-655-8740.