Five people are dead after a head-on collision on Colorado Highway 9 the morning of Monday, Aug. 4.

At approximately 7:17 a.m., the Colorado State Patrol responded to the crash about three miles south of Kremmling involving two vehicles on Highway 9 near milepost 136.

The initial investigation of the fatal crash on Highway 9 found that a Ford F-150 was traveling northbound on Highway 9 when it drove into the southbound lane, striking a southbound GMC Yukon. The impact of this head-on crash caused both vehicles to catch on fire. 

The driver of the F-150, a 25-year-old male from Parker, was transported by air ambulance to an area hospital for life-threatening injuries. The driver of the Yukon was determined to be a 34-year-old male from Kremmling. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Due to the extensive damage and fire to this vehicle, first responders were unable to confirm the number of occupants right away. However, the four passengers of the Yukon were pronounced dead at the scene. The Grand County Coroner’s Office will release the identities of the deceased once next of kin have been notified.

This investigation is ongoing, and no charges have been brought against any drivers at this time. The highway was reopened at 2:47 p.m., after traffic had been diverted down Trough Road and Ute Pass for most of the day.

The Colorado State Patrol is the lead investigating agency for this crash. If you witnessed this crash and have not spoken to investigators, please contact Colorado State Patrol Dispatch at 970-249-4392, and reference VC25269. Be prepared to provide your name and contact information, so that investigators can reach you.

Colorado State Patrol will be handling the public information for this incident. You can reach their on-call phone number at 303-239-4583.

West Grand School District posted on Facebook that school resource officer DJ Elthorp is available for in the community who may need support.