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Colorado Buffaloes backup quarterback Dominiq Ponder died at the age of 23 after being involved in a single-car crash Sunday (March 1) morning, athletic director Fernando Lovo confirmed in a statement obtained by ESPN.
"The entire CU Athletics family is devastated at the tragic passing of Dominiq Ponder," Lovo said. "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."
The crash occurred at around 3:00 a.m. in Boulder County when Ponder, who was driving a 2023 Tesla Model 3, lost control on a curve, went across the eastbound lane, struck a guardrail and then crashed into an electrical line pole before rolling down an embankment and catching on fire, the Colorado State Patrol confirmed via ESPN. The junior was pronounced dead at the scene and police said a preliminary investigation "shows that speed is suspected as a factor," though a full investigation is pending.
Ponder spent two seasons at Colorado after transferring from Bethune-Cookman and made two appearances in 2025, recording two rushes and a pass attempt.
"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. Comfort us Lord Comfort us. #CoachPrime," Colorado head coach Deion Sanders wrote on his X account Sunday.