Fatal Crash Closes U.S. Highway 550 South of Ridgway

One person died and two others were injured in a two-vehicle collision on Monday.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 3:45am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a damaged car part or piece of debris from the crash site, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conveying the stark, gritty, and investigative nature of the incident.The aftermath of a fatal crash on U.S. Highway 550 south of Ridgway exposes the grim reality of the incident and the need for increased road safety measures.Ridgway Today

A fatal two-vehicle crash on U.S. Highway 550 south of Ridgway, Colorado has resulted in one fatality and two injuries. The crash, which involved a Dodge Caravan and a Ford F-350 hauling a trailer, occurred around 5:33 pm near milepost 103. A portion of Highway 550 between County Road 3A and Colorado 62 in Ridgway was closed in both directions following the incident.

Why it matters

This tragic accident highlights the importance of road safety and the need for caution when driving, especially on major highways. The closure of a key thoroughfare like U.S. Highway 550 also disrupts travel and commerce in the region, underscoring the broader impact of such incidents.

The details

According to the Colorado State Patrol, the driver of the Dodge Caravan, a 34-year-old male, was pronounced dead at the scene. Two passengers in the Caravan, a 12-year-old girl and a 74-year-old woman, were transported to a local hospital for treatment. The driver of the Ford F-350 was uninjured. The cause of the crash is still under investigation by the Colorado State Patrol Vehicular Crimes Unit.

  • The crash occurred at 5:33 pm on Monday, April 7, 2026.
  • A portion of U.S. Highway 550 between County Road 3A and Colorado 62 in Ridgway was closed in both directions following the incident.

The players

Colorado State Patrol

The law enforcement agency leading the investigation into the fatal crash.

Dodge Caravan

One of the vehicles involved in the two-vehicle collision, resulting in one fatality and two injuries.

Ford F-350

The other vehicle involved in the two-vehicle collision, with the driver sustaining no injuries.

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What’s next

The Colorado State Patrol Vehicular Crimes Unit will continue its investigation to determine the cause of the crash. The section of U.S. Highway 550 will remain closed until further notice, and motorists are advised to seek alternate routes.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the importance of safe driving practices and the need for caution on major highways. The closure of U.S. Highway 550 also highlights the broader impact that such accidents can have on transportation and commerce in the region.