Police suspect drugs and alcohol could have been contributing factors in a deadly crash that claimed the life of a child on Highway 50 the night of Feb. 14. Colorado State Patrol was called to the scene of the accident that killed a 6-year-old boy. One driver was arrested, but as with most car accidents where alcohol and drugs are potential factors, this investigation is still underway.
According to the limited information provided in the report, it appears a vehicle driven by a 26-year-old man was headed southbound on Highway 50 when, for reasons that have not been confirmed, the vehicle crossed the center line and left the road. It then rolled onto the passenger side, ejecting the 6-year-old male victim who became pinned under the vehicle. The child was pronounced dead at the scene.
The other passengers included a 26-year-old woman, a 5-year-old boy and a 2-year-old boy. Their relationship to the driver is not known at this time. All of these individuals except the driver sustained minor injuries. Police had reason to believe intoxication was a factor at the crash scene, and they have added that charges are pending for the driver, who is still being investigated.
Car accidents that claim lives are always tragic, perhaps most so when the victim is a child. Regardless of the relationship between the driver and the deceased and injured parties, the victims are entitled under Colorado law to file personal injury and/or wrongful death suits against him in civil court. These lawsuits are handled separately from any criminal charges that may be filed.