Colorado QB Dominiq Ponder had double legal alcohol limit in fatal crash
Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Dominiq Ponder had a blood alcohol level more than twice the legal limit when he died in a single-car crash near Boulder on 1 March.
The 23-year-old was killed after losing control of his vehicle on a curve and striking a guardrail.
An autopsy report from the Boulder County Coroner’s Office confirmed the student-athlete’s blood alcohol content was .167, which is well above the state limit of 0.08.
The 2023 Tesla he was driving subsequently hit an electrical pole before rolling down an embankment.
Multiple blunt force injuries
The Florida native was pronounced dead at the scene of the early morning accident.
Coroners officially listed the cause of death as multiple blunt force injuries resulting from the collision.
The Colorado State Patrol is currently conducting a comprehensive investigation into the incident.
Authorities are continuing to examine several potential contributing factors, including speed, impairment and distracted driving.
Family launches legacy foundation
Catrina Hughes, the player’s mother, released a heartfelt statement urging young adults to make responsible choices.
“What matters most to me is who Dominiq was as a person. He was a determined student-athlete, a leader, and someone with a huge heart who fiercely loved his family, his teammates, and the game of football.”
The family has since established a charitable foundation named ‘Dominiq Ponder 7/22’ alongside a fundraising page.
This new initiative aims to support children’s hospitals and families facing medical challenges, while actively promoting responsible decision-making among young people.
Collegiate football career
“A big part of his legacy will be to encourage young people to please make responsible choices and if possible to have the courage to step in for their friends when one of them isn’t thinking clearly for themselves,” Hughes wrote.
“Don’t be afraid even if it’s uncomfortable. A difficult conversation is easier than a lifetime of loss.”
The 6ft 5in sophomore featured in two matches for the Buffaloes during the previous college football season.
Before transferring to Colorado, the promising talent began his collegiate sporting career at Bethune-Cookman University.