University of Colorado QB Dominiq Ponder killed in car crash at 23

Backup sophomore quarterback died in single-vehicle accident early Sunday morning

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Dominiq Ponder, a 23-year-old backup quarterback for the University of Colorado Boulder, was killed in a single-vehicle car crash early Sunday morning. The Colorado State Patrol responded to the fatal accident around 3 a.m. and confirmed that Ponder, who was driving a 2023 Tesla Model 3, lost control on a curve, crashed into a guardrail, and then rolled down an embankment before the vehicle caught fire. Ponder was pronounced dead at the scene.

Why it matters

Ponder's death is a tragic loss for the CU Buffaloes football program, which was set to begin spring training on Monday. The young quarterback was described as a "loved" and "respected" leader by head coach Deion Sanders, who expressed his condolences to Ponder's family and friends.

The details

According to the Colorado State Patrol, Ponder lost control of his Tesla on a right-hand curve, crashed into a guardrail, and then continued through the guardrail and hit an electrical line before rolling down an embankment and catching fire. Investigators are looking at speed as a potential factor in the crash.

  • On March 1, around 3 a.m., the Colorado State Patrol responded to the deadly crash.
  • CU Buffaloes were set to start spring training on Monday, March 3.

The players

Dominiq Ponder

A 23-year-old backup sophomore quarterback for the University of Colorado Boulder who was killed in a single-vehicle car crash.

Deion Sanders

The head coach of the University of Colorado Boulder football team, who expressed condolences for Ponder's death.

Scott Procter

A CU football reporter for DNVR Buffs who reported on Ponder's death.

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What they’re saying

“'God please comfort the Ponder family, friends & Loved ones. Dom was one of my favorites! He was Loved, Respected & a Born Leader. Let's pray for all that knew him & had the opportunity to be in his presence. Lord you're receiving a good 1. Comfort us Lord Comfort us.'”

— Deion Sanders, CU Buffaloes Head Coach (X)

“'RIP Dominiq Ponder. The Colorado QB passed away in a single-car accident. Tragic news on the eve of spring ball.'”

— Scott Procter, CU Football Reporter (DNVR Buffs)

What’s next

The Colorado State Patrol's Vehicular Crimes Unit is investigating the crash, and stated that speed is being considered as a factor.

The takeaway

Ponder's death is a devastating loss for the CU Buffaloes football program and the broader community. As the team prepares to start spring training, they will be mourning the loss of a young player who was described as a respected leader and beloved teammate.