Summary:
- Dominiq Ponder, 23, died in a single-car crash in Boulder County early Sunday morning.
- Police say speed is suspected as a factor; the investigation is ongoing.
- Coaches, teammates and the Big 12 shared tributes as Colorado prepares for spring practice.
The University of Colorado community is mourning the loss of quarterback Dominiq Ponder, who died early Sunday morning in a single-car crash at the age of 23.
According to the Colorado State Patrol, the accident happened around 3 am in Boulder County. Police said Ponder was driving a 2023 Tesla Model 3 when he lost control on a curve.
The vehicle crossed into the eastbound lane, hit a guardrail and then an electrical pole, rolled down an embankment, and caught fire. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators said a preliminary review “shows that speed is suspected as a factor” though a full investigation is still underway.
Ponder was a third-year sophomore from Opa Locka, Florida. He transferred to Colorado from Bethune-Cookman and spent the past two seasons with the Buffaloes. He appeared in two games last season, recording two rushes and a pass attempt. He did not see game action in 2024.
News of his death spread quickly through the program with Colorado athletic director Fernando Lovo saying in a statement
The entire CU Athletics family is devastated at the tragic passing of Dominiq Ponder. 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.
Head coach Deion Sanders shared his own message.
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. #CoachPrime pic.twitter.com/2R7BAVyZ8u
— COACH PRIME (@DeionSanders) March 1, 2026
Offensive coordinator Brennan Marion reposted Sanders’ words and added:
Getting that call from his dad today didn’t feel real. Love you Dom! God cover his family & our team, especially our qb room!
Teammates also expressed their grief. Quarterback Colton Allen wrote on Instagram that Ponder had “a presence about you that just made everything better” adding that he would carry their shared moments for the rest of his life.
The Big 12 Conference issued condolences as well.
Colorado is scheduled to begin spring practice Monday in Boulder. Instead, the program now starts the week in shock, remembering a teammate and friend gone far too soon.
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