Colorado QB Dominiq Ponder Dies in Car Crash at 23
Dominiq Ponder, a quarterback for the University of Colorado, died early Sunday morning in a single-car crash in Boulder County, Colorado. He was 23 years old.
According to a statement from the Colorado State Patrol, Ponder was driving a 2023 Tesla when he lost control on a curve and struck a guardrail. The vehicle then collided with an electrical line pole and rolled down an embankment. Ponder was pronounced dead at the scene. A preliminary investigation indicates that speed was a contributing factor in the accident.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the Colorado football program and the wider college sports community. Head coach Deion Sanders expressed his grief on social media, writing, “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.”
Colorado’s offensive coordinator, Brennan Marion, echoed Sanders’ sentiments, describing Ponder as a joy to be around and coach. He posted, “Getting that call from his dad today didn’t feel real. Love you Dom! God cover his family & our team, especially our qb room!”
Athletic Director Fernando Lovo released a statement on behalf of the university, saying, “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.” The athletic department has announced that counseling resources will be made available to players and staff.
Ponder’s teammates similarly shared their grief. Fellow quarterback Colton Allen posted a tribute on Instagram, stating, “Dom, you were a blessing to so many people. You had a presence about you that just made everything better. 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.”
Ponder joined the Buffaloes in 2024 after beginning his collegiate career at Bethune-Cookman. He also spent time at Georgia Tech before transferring to Colorado. Last season, the 6-foot-5 sophomore from Opa Locka, Florida, appeared in two games, completing zero of one pass attempts and rushing for a loss of four yards. He was expected to compete for playing time this spring, with the arrival of highly-touted recruit Julian Lewis adding further competition at the quarterback position.
The Buffaloes were scheduled to begin spring practice on Monday, , but the team is now grappling with the loss of one of its own. The accident occurred around 3:00 a.m. On Sunday, according to the Colorado State Patrol.
Ponder’s death is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the profound impact athletes have on their communities. Although his time on the field for Colorado was limited, his character and leadership qualities clearly resonated with those who knew him. The university and the football program are now focused on supporting Ponder’s family, friends, and teammates as they navigate this incredibly difficult time.
The investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing, but authorities have indicated that speed was likely a factor. The loss of such a young life is a tragedy that will be felt deeply within the Colorado football family and beyond.