The Colorado State Patrol (CSP) is asking for the public’s help in identifying two vehicles that left the scene of a hit-and-run crash on westbound U.S. Highway 36. The Saturday morning collision caused a large diesel fuel spill, forcing authorities to close the highway for several hours while emergency crews completed cleanup operations.
Introduction
A multi-vehicle crash on Highway 36 near Pecos Street led to significant traffic disruptions after a damaged semi-truck leaked an estimated 50 to 60 gallons of diesel fuel onto the roadway. Investigators say two drivers left the scene, and authorities are now seeking information that could help locate them.
Incident
According to the Colorado State Patrol, the crash occurred at approximately 7 a.m. on westbound Highway 36 near Pecos Street.
Three vehicles were traveling in the same direction when the incident unfolded. They included a Dodge Challenger, a Ford F-150 pickup truck, and a tractor-trailer.
Investigators said the Dodge Challenger was traveling in the high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lane before crossing two solid white lane markings into the general-purpose lanes.
The maneuver reportedly cut off both the Ford F-150 and the semi-truck.
Collision
CSP said the Ford F-150 attempted to avoid the Challenger by swerving to the right.
During the maneuver, the pickup struck the semi-truck’s left-side fuel tank with its front right side.
The impact caused the fuel tank to rupture, releasing approximately 50 to 60 gallons of diesel fuel across the westbound lanes.
Authorities also said the pickup rotated during the crash, causing its truck bed to slide beneath the left side of the semi-trailer before striking the trailer’s rear left tires.
The semi-truck driver was able to safely stop on the shoulder.
Investigation
Investigators said both the Dodge Challenger and the Ford F-150 left the scene after the collision.
According to CSP, the Dodge Challenger did not make direct contact with either vehicle but is considered a non-contact vehicle because its actions allegedly contributed to the crash.
The black Ford F-150 reportedly sustained significant damage before leaving the area.
Vehicles
Authorities released the following details about the vehicles they are attempting to locate:
| Vehicle | Description |
|---|---|
| Dodge Challenger | Unknown model, left the scene, considered a non-contact vehicle |
| Ford F-150 | Black pickup with Colorado vanity plate “CHILANG,” heavy right front damage, damaged truck bed, and a door sticker reading “You can’t fix stupid” |
The Colorado State Patrol is encouraging anyone who recognizes either vehicle or has information about the crash to contact investigators.
Cleanup
The diesel spill prompted a response from firefighters and hazardous materials crews, who worked for several hours to remove the fuel from the roadway.
Westbound Highway 36 remained closed throughout the cleanup before all lanes reopened at approximately 2:45 p.m.
Enforcement
During the closure, troopers also monitored traffic around the incident scene.
Authorities previously reported issuing citations to several motorists who attempted to bypass the closure by improperly driving through the HOV lane.
Officials reminded drivers to follow all traffic restrictions during emergency incidents to help protect responders and other motorists.
The Colorado State Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the Highway 36 crash and is seeking additional information from the public. With two vehicles still unaccounted for, investigators hope witness statements and public tips will help identify those involved and determine the full sequence of events leading to the diesel fuel spill.
FAQs
Why was Highway 36 closed?
A crash caused a diesel fuel spill.
How much diesel leaked?
Approximately 50 to 60 gallons.
Which vehicles left the scene?
A Dodge Challenger and a Ford F-150.
What is the pickup’s license plate?
Colorado vanity plate ‘CHILANG.’
Is the investigation still active?
Yes, CSP is seeking public information.
