A two-vehicle crash on westbound US 36 in Westminster early Sunday morning left one driver dead and another critically injured, according to police. The collision occurred near the Sheridan Boulevard exit and prompted an hours-long closure of the highway as investigators worked at the scene.
Both drivers were transported to the hospital in critical condition. One later died from their injuries. The identity of the deceased has not been released while authorities notify next of kin.
The Westminster Police Department said the crash occurred during the early morning hours in the westbound lanes of US 36. Two vehicles were involved, though officials have not released details about how the collision unfolded.
Emergency responders arrived quickly and found both drivers with life-threatening injuries. Despite medical treatment, one driver was pronounced dead at the hospital. The second driver remains in critical condition.
Location
The crash happened near the Sheridan Boulevard exit, a major interchange along US 36 that connects traffic between Westminster, Denver, and Boulder. The area was closed to westbound traffic for several hours while police conducted their investigation and crews cleared the roadway.
Drivers were diverted to alternate routes, causing backups on nearby surface streets.
Response
Police, fire crews, and paramedics responded to the scene shortly after the crash was reported. Due to the severity of the collision, the response included extensive medical care, vehicle recovery, and documentation of the scene.
Investigators remained on site for several hours, collecting evidence and assessing roadway conditions before reopening the westbound lanes.
Investigation
The cause of the crash remains under investigation. Police have not said whether speed, impairment, weather, or mechanical issues were factors.
Authorities are asking anyone who witnessed the crash or may have dash camera footage from westbound US 36 near Sheridan Boulevard during the early morning hours to contact the Westminster Police Department.
Traffic Impact
The crash resulted in a full closure of westbound US 36 near Sheridan Boulevard for several hours. Traffic delays extended into the morning as crews worked to reopen the roadway safely.
Officials reopened the lanes once the investigation and cleanup were completed.
Related Incident
The Westminster crash occurred just hours after another traffic incident in Boulder County. Colorado State Patrol reported that a westbound SUV lost control while attempting to avoid a stalled vehicle.
In that incident, the SUV struck a pedestrian. The pedestrian was taken to the hospital with injuries described as unknown. That case is also under investigation.
Safety Context
Law enforcement officials note that early morning driving can present additional risks, including reduced visibility and unexpected hazards on the roadway. Drivers are urged to remain alert, slow down, and be prepared to react to stalled vehicles or pedestrians, particularly during low-light conditions.
Crash Details at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Highway | US 36 |
| Direction | Westbound |
| Location | Near Sheridan Boulevard |
| Vehicles | Two |
| Casualties | One dead, one critically injured |
| Status | Under investigation |
As investigators continue their work, police emphasize that additional details will be released if they become available. Anyone with information related to the crash is encouraged to contact authorities.
FAQs
Where did the crash happen?
On westbound US 36 near the Sheridan Boulevard exit.
How many vehicles were involved?
Two vehicles were involved in the crash.
Was there a fatality?
Yes, one driver later died at the hospital.
Is the crash still under investigation?
Yes, the cause has not yet been determined.
Were lanes closed after the crash?
Yes, westbound lanes were closed for several hours.
