Pueblo Community Holds Lantern Release for I-25 Crash Victims

The event honored the five lives lost and 29 injured in the February 17 multi-vehicle accident.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The Pueblo community gathered at the Riverwalk on February 28th to honor the victims of the deadly February 17th I-25 crash. The lantern release, hosted by Sangre de Cristo Community Care, offered reflection, remembrance, and support for the grieving families and first responders. Five people were killed and 29 injured in the multi-vehicle accident caused by a dust storm.

Why it matters

The tragic I-25 crash deeply impacted the Pueblo community, with many lives lost and dozens injured. The lantern release provided an opportunity for the community to come together in grief, healing, and solidarity with the victims' families and first responders.

The details

The free community event included a program of reflection and a lantern release at sunset. Families, neighbors, and first responders gathered to remember the five people who lost their lives and recognize the 29 others who were injured. Among those remembered was Karen Ann Marsh, a longtime certified nursing assistant with Sangre de Cristo Community Care. Colorado State Patrol Major Brian Lyons offered words of comfort to the grieving families.

  • The crash occurred on February 17, 2026.
  • The lantern release event was held on February 28, 2026, eleven days after the crash.

The players

Sangre de Cristo Community Care

A local healthcare provider that hosted the lantern release event to honor the victims of the I-25 crash.

Melinda Egging

The CEO of Sangre de Cristo Community Care, who said the event provided a space for the community to come together in grief and healing.

Karen Ann Marsh

A longtime certified nursing assistant with Sangre de Cristo Community Care who was among those remembered at the event.

David L. Kirscht

One of the five victims killed in the I-25 crash.

Major Brian Lyons

A Colorado State Patrol officer who addressed the crowd at the event, offering words of comfort to the grieving families.

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What they’re saying

“Grief does become easier, but it's always there. It's always there. You never forget the people that you love and you care about. And so what makes it helpful is knowing you're not alone in that grief. And sharing with your community that support.”

— Melinda Egging, CEO, Sangre de Cristo Community Care (kkco11news.com)

“Please take comfort in knowing that your loved ones will forever be in your heart, and in the countless special memories you can cherish in your thoughts when you miss them in the days, weeks, months, and years to come.”

— Major Brian Lyons, Colorado State Patrol (kkco11news.com)

What’s next

Sangre de Cristo Community Care plans to continue honoring the victims of the I-25 crash through future community events and gatherings.

The takeaway

The lantern release event demonstrated the Pueblo community's resilience and solidarity in the face of tragedy, as they came together to remember the lives lost, support the injured, and honor the first responders who assisted in the aftermath of the deadly crash.