Colorado QB Dominiq Ponder dies in single-car crash at 23

Colorado quarterback Dominiq Ponder died early Sunday morning in a single-car crash, police say. He was 23 years old.

“The entire CU Athletics family is devastated by the tragic passing of Dominiq Ponder,” Colorado athletic director Fernando Lovo said in a statement. “He embodied the values ​​of passion, enthusiasm, leadership, tenacity and intelligence that were revered by his teammates and coaches alike. Our thoughts are with his family and all of his teammates during this difficult time.”

According to the Colorado State Patrol, the crash happened around 3 a.m. Sunday in Boulder County. Police said Ponder, who was driving a 2023 Tesla Model 3, lost control on a curve and the car crossed the eastbound lane, hitting a guardrail and then a power line pole, before rolling down an embankment and catching fire.

Ponder was pronounced dead at the scene. Police said a preliminary investigation “shows speed is suspected as a factor” but a full investigation will take place.

Ponder, a sophomore from Opa Locka, Fla., spent the last two seasons with Colorado after transferring from Bethune-Cookman. He appeared in two games last season, recording two carries and one pass attempt, after not playing for the Buffaloes in 2024.

“Dom was one of my favorites!” Colorado coach Deion Sanders wrote of

Colorado offensive coordinator Brennan Marion reposted Sanders’ statement and called Ponder a joy to be there and coach.

“Getting that call from his dad today didn’t seem real,” Marion posted. “I love you Dom! May God bless his family and our team, especially our QB room!”

Fellow Colorado quarterback Colton Allen also paid tribute to Ponder on Instagram.

“Dom, you have been a blessing to so many,” Allen wrote. “You had a presence within you that made everything better. You brought so much joy to me and everyone around you. I am grateful for every lift, every practice, every rep, every conversation we were able to share. I will carry them with me for the rest of my life.”

The Big 12 Conference also offered its condolences in a social media post.

Colorado is scheduled to open spring practice Monday in Boulder.

Ponder played high school football at Carol City and Naples, Fla., and came to Bethune-Cookman from Myrtle Beach Collegiate Academy in South Carolina.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.