BOULDER COUNTY, CO (THECOUNT) — Dominiq Ponder, a quarterback for the Colorado Buffaloes, has died at the age of 23 following a single-vehicle crash early Sunday morning, authorities confirmed. The crash occurred on Baseline Road near Newland Court in Boulder County, Colorado
According to law enforcement, Ponder was operating a 2023 Tesla in Boulder when he reportedly lost control while negotiating a curve. The vehicle struck a guardrail, then an electrical line pole, before rolling down an embankment.
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Ponder was pronounced dead at the scene.
A preliminary investigation indicates speed may have been a contributing factor in the crash. No other vehicles were reported to be involved.
Ponder was a 6-foot-5 sophomore who transferred to the University of Colorado after beginning his collegiate football career at Bethune-Cookman University. Originally from Opa Locka, Florida, he joined the Colorado Buffaloes program and appeared in two games last season. Official statistics show he recorded one incomplete pass attempt and two rushing attempts for a loss of four yards.
His death comes as the team was scheduled to begin spring practice on Monday.
Colorado head coach Deion Sanders addressed the loss in a post on X, 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.”
Offensive coordinator Brennan Marion shared Sanders’ message and added: “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 also issued a statement, praising Ponder and saying he embodied “the values of passion, enthusiasm, leadership, toughness, and intelligence that were revered by his teammates and coaches alike.”
The University of Colorado athletic department announced that counseling resources will be made available to players and staff in the wake of Ponder’s death.
Teammate and fellow quarterback Colton Allen shared a tribute on Instagram, 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 condolences to Ponder’s family, teammates, and the University of Colorado community.
The crash remains under investigation by local authorities.
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