Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Dominiq Ponder has died in a single-car crash. He was 23 years old.
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According to ESPN, the Colorado State Police said that the crash occurred at approximately 3 a.m. on Sunday. They said that Ponder was driving a 2023 Tesla Model 3 when he lost control on a curve.
The CSP said that the Tesla went across the eastbound lane, struck a guardrail and an electrical line pole. The Tesla rolled down an embankment and then caught fire. Police said that he was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash.
The Colorado Football family mourns the passing of Dominiq Ponder.
We honor his life, his spirit, and the light he brought to Boulder.
Forever a Buffalo.https://t.co/FwASG1uM8I pic.twitter.com/yGSLOXZCYC
— Colorado Buffaloes Football (@CUBuffsFootball) March 2, 2026
"The entire CU Athletics family is devastated at the tragic passing of Dominiq Ponder," said Colorado athletic director Fernando Lovo.
"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."
Ponder, a Florida native, came to the Colorado program after spending time at Bethune-Cookman and Georgia Tech. He redshirted his first season with the Buffaloes and then he made his first in-game appearance in 2025. He attempted two rushes and one pass.
Ponder was set to enter his third season with the program in 2026. The team is set to open spring practice in Boulder, Colorado, on Monday.
"God, please comfort the entire Ponder family during this difficult time," head coach Deion Sanders said in a statement.
"Dominiq was one of my favorites because of his passion, his heart and his willingness to go beyond what was asked. He will certainly be remembered, missed, and in our thoughts and prayers."
The Colorado Buffaloes said that they are making counseling resources available to the student-athletes and staff members in the wake of the single-car crash.
"The Big 12 Conference is deeply saddened by the passing of Colorado football student-athlete Dominiq Ponder," the conference said in a statement.
"We extend our condolences to the Ponder family and Dominiq's loved ones. Our thoughts are with the entire CU community during this difficult time."
