The Colorado football community is reeling after the sudden death of quarterback Dominiq Ponder, who was killed in a single-car crash early Sunday morning. He was just 23.
According to the Colorado State Patrol, Ponder was driving a 2023 Tesla in Boulder County when he lost control of the vehicle on a curve. Investigators say the car struck a guardrail, then hit an electrical line pole before rolling down an embankment.
First responders pronounced him dead at the scene.
Authorities told the Associated Press and ESPN that speed is suspected to have been a factor, though the investigation remains ongoing.
The heartbreaking news was first shared publicly by Colorado Buffaloes head coach Deion Sanders, who posted an emotional message on social media.
“God please comfort the Ponder family, friends & loved ones,” Sanders wrote. “Dom was one of my favorites. He was loved, respected & a born leader.”
He added, “Let’s pray for all that knew him & had the opportunity to be in his presence. Lord you’re receiving a good one. Comfort us Lord.”
Colorado athletic director Fernando Lovo also released a statement expressing the program’s devastation.
“The entire CU Athletics family is devastated at the tragic passing of Dominiq Ponder,” Lovo said. “He epitomized the values of passion, enthusiasm, leadership, toughness and intelligence that were revered by his teammates and coaches alike. Our hearts go out to his family and all of his teammates during this difficult time.”
Originally from Opa Locka, Florida, Ponder began his college career at Bethune-Cookman University before transferring to Colorado, where he spent the past two seasons. A third-year sophomore, he appeared in two games last season, logging two rushes and a pass attempt.
But teammates say his impact went far beyond the stat sheet.
Offensive coordinator Brennan Marion shared the shock he felt after speaking with Ponder’s father.
“Getting that call from his dad today didn’t feel real,” Marion wrote. “Love you Dom. God cover his family & our team, especially our QB room.”
Fellow quarterback Colton Allen remembered Ponder as someone who lit up every room.
“You had a presence about you that just made everything better,” Allen wrote. “You brought so much joy to me and everyone around you. I’m grateful for every lift, every practice, every rep, every conversation we got to share. I’ll carry those with me for the rest of my life.”
The Buffaloes were scheduled to begin spring practice Monday. Instead, the team now faces the unimaginable task of moving forward while mourning a teammate described by coaches as a leader and by friends as a blessing.
As investigators continue piecing together what happened on that curve in Boulder County, one thing is clear: a young life full of promise was lost far too soon.
Leave a Reply