Boulder County, CO – March 12, 2023 – Colorado quarterback Dominiq Ponder died early Sunday morning in a single-car crash. He was 23.
According to the Colorado State Patrol, Ponder was driving a 2023 Tesla when he lost control on a curve, struck a guardrail, hit an electrical pole, and rolled down an embankment. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Preliminary investigations suggest speed may have been a factor, authorities stated.
Ponder played two games for the Buffaloes last season, completing no passes and rushing twice for a loss of 4 yards. A 6-foot-5 sophomore from Opa Locka, Florida, he previously attended Bethune-Cookman before transferring to Colorado.
The Buffaloes are set to begin spring practice on Monday.
Colorado Head Coach Deion Sanders expressed condolences via social media, stating, “Dom was one of my favorites! He was Loved, Respected & a Born Leader.”
Offensive Coordinator Brennan Marion echoed the sentiment, sharing his disbelief upon receiving the news. “Love you Dom! God cover his family & our team, especially our QB room!” Marion posted.
Fellow QB Colton Allen also paid tribute, expressing gratitude for their shared experiences.
The Big 12 Conference extended its condolences in a statement on social media. An investigation into the crash is ongoing, with no further details available at this time.