EATON, Colo. — Authorities are investigating a single-vehicle crash that killed three recent high school graduates on Saturday, October 14, 2023.
According to the Colorado State Patrol, the crash occurred around 10:41 p.m. on Weld County Road 80 east of Ault. A Chevy Tahoe carrying five occupants lost control and rolled multiple times, resulting in the ejection of all passengers.
Troopers confirmed that the deceased include Jack Dirksen, 19, Cash Rinker, 20, both from Eaton, and Cooper Nider, 20, from Greeley. Two additional passengers were injured: a 20-year-old male driver from Wyoming sustained critical injuries and was airlifted to a local hospital, while a 19-year-old male from Eaton was treated for minor injuries.
Investigators are looking into impairment as a potential factor in the crash, having found both open and unopened alcoholic beverages in the vehicle. However, the driver's impairment status has not yet been confirmed.
Speed was also identified as a contributing factor to the crash, according to preliminary reports. The collision prompted local emergency responders to close affected lanes as they conducted their investigation.
In the wake of this incident, the town of Eaton and its school district are rallying to support the victims' families and the community. Eaton School District Superintendent Todd Cordrey emphasized the community's close ties, stating, “This is an incredibly unique community… We all support each other.”
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.