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

Colorado quarterback dominiq ponder, a 23-year-old South Florida native, died early Sunday morning in a single-car crash in Boulder County after his 2023 Tesla lost control on a curve. The crash and its timing arrive as the Buffaloes were slated to begin spring practice on Monday.

Crash sequence and preliminary findings

Police said Ponder lost control of the 2023 Tesla on a curve, struck a guardrail, then the vehicle hit an electrical line pole and rolled down an embankment before catching fire. He was pronounced dead at the scene in Boulder County. A preliminary investigation, police said, "shows that speed is suspected as a factor. "

Dominiq Ponder, 23, background and college career

Ponder was 23 and listed at 6-foot-5. The sophomore was a South Florida native from Opa Locka, Florida. He began his collegiate career at Bethune-Cookman before transferring to Colorado in 2024.

Playing time and on-field numbers from last season

Last season Ponder appeared in two games for the Buffaloes. He went 0-for-1 passing and carried the ball twice for a loss of 4 yards.

Reactions from Colorado coaches and athletics leadership

Coach Deion Sanders wrote, "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 offensive coordinator Brennan Marion reposted Sanders' statement and called Ponder a joy to be around and coach, writing, "Getting that call from his dad today didn't feel real. Love you Dom! God cover his family & our team, especially our qb room!"

Colorado athletic director Fernando Lovo said, "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. " The athletic department said it would make counseling resources available to players and staff.

Teammate tribute and conference condolences

Fellow Colorado quarterback Colton Allen paid tribute, writing, "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. " The Big 12 Conference also extended its condolences in a post.

The university community and teammates face the immediate task of responding to the loss while preparing for the previously scheduled start of spring practice on Monday.