DOUGLAS COUNTY, Colo. (CBS4) – The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office has released the identities of three people killed in a crash that occurred Friday evening along Interstate 25 near Larkspur.
According to the sheriff’s office, Valentine “Timothy” Baca, 40; Simon Gene Mejia, 40; and a male minor age of 15 were all killed in the crash.
The crash happened on the frontage road along the northbound lanes of I-25 at Greenland where the vehicle plummeted 20 feet into a culvert.
Copter4 flew over the crash (credit: CBS)
All three killed were in one vehicle. Investigators worked to determine what led up to the crash but believe the vehicle veered off the interstate to avoid a collision with another vehicle.
Copter4 flew over the crash (credit: CBS)
State troopers believe the SUV was traveling the speed limit along I-25 when it came upon slowed traffic but are investigating witness reports of another vehicle brake-checking or intentionally slamming on the brakes in front of the victims’ vehicle prior to the crash.
The Baca Family (credit: CBS)
Investigators said after the SUV struck the grassy embankment, it went airborne for about 50 feet then slammed into the wall of a culvert. All three inside were killed instantly.
“There is a creek that flows here and it’s clearly not visible,” said Colorado State Patrol Sgt. James Seneca. “Just a bad coincidence that it happened at this particular location.”
Backups from the crash along I-25 (credit: CDOT)
The trio was traveling back to Denver from Colorado Springs as part of a family moving business.
(credit: CBS)
All three occupants were not wearing seat belts. Authorities don’t believe alcohol or drugs were a factor in the crash.
The Colorado State Patrol is asking for anyone who may have seen the crash or saw another vehicle involved to contact investigators at (303) 239-4501.
Additional Resources
Loved ones have started a GoFundMe campaign to help support the victims’ families.
