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Adam Rittenberg
A number of Authors
Colorado quarterback Dominiq Ponder died early Sunday morning in a single-car crash, based on police. He was 23.
“Your entire CU Athletics household is devastated on the tragic passing of Dominiq Ponder,” Colorado athletic director Fernando Lovo mentioned in a press release. “He epitomized the values of ardour, enthusiasm, management, toughness, and intelligence that have been revered by his teammates and coaches alike. Our hearts exit to his household and all of his teammates throughout this tough time.”
In accordance with the Colorado State Patrol, the crash occurred at round 3 a.m. Sunday in Boulder County. Police mentioned Ponder, who was driving a 2023 Tesla Mannequin 3, misplaced management on a curve, and the automotive went throughout the eastbound lane, placing a guardrail after which {an electrical} line pole, earlier than rolling down an embankment and catching on hearth.
Ponder was pronounced useless on the scene. Police mentioned a preliminary investigation “exhibits that pace is suspected as an element,” although a full investigation will happen.
Ponder, a third-year sophomore from Opa Locka, Florida, spent the previous two seasons with Colorado after transferring from Bethune-Cookman. He appeared in two video games final season, recording two rushes and a move try, after not enjoying for the Buffaloes in 2024.
“Dom was one in every of my favorites!” Colorado coach Deion Sanders wrote on X. “He was Beloved, Revered & a Born Chief. Let’s pray for all that knew him & had the chance to be in his presence. Lord you are receiving a superb 1.”
Colorado offensive coordinator Brennan Marion reposted Sanders’ assertion and referred to as Ponder a pleasure to be round and coach.
“Getting that decision from his dad at present did not really feel actual,” Marion posted. “Love you Dom! God cowl his household & our staff, particularly our qb room!”
Fellow Colorado quarterback Colton Allen additionally paid tribute to Ponder on Instagram.
“Dom, you have been a blessing to so many individuals,” Allen wrote. “You had a presence about you that simply made every part higher. You introduced a lot pleasure to me and everybody round you. I am grateful for each elevate, each observe, each rep, each dialog we acquired to share. I am going to carry these with me for the remainder of my life.”
The Large 12 Convention additionally prolonged its condolences in a social media post.
Colorado is about to open spring observe Monday in Boulder.
Ponder performed highschool soccer at Carol Metropolis and Naples in Florida, and got here to Bethune-Cookman from Myrtle Seaside Collegiate Academy in South Carolina.
The Related Press contributed to this report.
