Driver Involved in Two-Vehicle Crash on I-25 Near Monument Killed in Secondary Crash Moments Later, CSP Says
Monument, CO — May 15, 2025 — A tragic sequence of events unfolded on Interstate 25 near Monument late Wednesday evening when a driver involved in an initial two-vehicle crash was struck and killed in a secondary collision just moments later, according to the Colorado State Patrol (CSP).
Authorities say the incident began shortly after 8:45 p.m. in the northbound lanes of I-25 near mile marker 163, not far from the Baptist Road exit. CSP reports that two vehicles were involved in a crash that left both disabled along the highway. One of the drivers, whose identity has not yet been released pending notification of next of kin, exited their vehicle following the initial collision.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the driver may have stepped into an active lane of traffic in an attempt to assess the damage or communicate with the other motorist when a third vehicle, traveling northbound, struck them. Emergency personnel responded quickly to the scene, but the driver was pronounced dead on site.
“This is a heartbreaking situation where a routine accident turned fatal in a matter of moments,” said Master Trooper Gary Cutler, public information officer for CSP. “It highlights the dangers present on high-speed roadways, especially at night, and the critical importance of remaining in your vehicle or moving to a safe location when possible after a crash.”
The occupants of the other vehicles involved in the initial crash did not sustain serious injuries and were evaluated at the scene. The driver of the third vehicle that struck the pedestrian remained at the scene and is cooperating fully with authorities. Impairment and excessive speed are not suspected to be factors in the secondary collision, though the investigation remains ongoing.
Traffic on northbound I-25 was severely impacted for several hours as CSP’s accident reconstruction team worked to gather evidence and clear the scene. Lanes were reopened shortly before 1:30 a.m.
Local drivers expressed frustration and concern over the increasing number of incidents along that particular stretch of highway. “It’s one of the busiest parts of I-25, and with ongoing construction and heavy evening traffic, it can be a dangerous mix,” said Monument resident Laura Jennings, who regularly commutes through the area.
CSP officials emphasized that while it’s instinctive for people to leave their vehicles after an accident, it can be extremely dangerous on high-speed interstates. “If you’re involved in a crash on a busy roadway, it’s safest to stay inside your vehicle with your seatbelt fastened, turn on your hazard lights, and call 911,” Cutler advised. “If you must exit, move to a safe location away from traffic.”
The name of the deceased driver will be released by the El Paso County Coroner’s Office following official identification and notification of family members.
CSP continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding both crashes and urges anyone who witnessed the incident or may have dashcam footage to contact them.
This marks one of several fatal incidents on Colorado highways in recent weeks, prompting renewed calls for heightened driver awareness and caution during nighttime travel.
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