Juvenile Killed in Tragic Crash on CO-115 Near Penrose; Investigation Underway
PENROSE, CO – A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded on the afternoon of Monday, June 9, 2025, along Colorado Highway 115, as a juvenile passenger was killed following a serious crash involving a passenger vehicle and a semi-truck, according to the Colorado State Patrol (CSP).
Authorities say they received the first emergency call around 1:00 p.m. regarding a collision at mile marker 29 on CO-115, a stretch of highway located just north of Penrose, in Fremont County. The crash resulted in significant injuries and prompted an immediate response from CSP, local emergency crews, and medical personnel.
Preliminary reports indicate that the driver of the vehicle, whose identity has not yet been released, was transported by ground ambulance to a nearby hospital for treatment. Meanwhile, a juvenile passenger, who sustained critical injuries in the crash, was airlifted via medical helicopter in a desperate attempt to save their life.
Tragically, despite the rapid medical response and lifesaving efforts by trauma specialists, the juvenile was pronounced dead at the hospital.
As news of the fatal crash spread, authorities shut down the southbound lanes of Highway 115 near the crash site to allow for an extensive on-site investigation. As of 5:30 p.m., CSP confirmed that the southbound lanes remain fully closed, with northbound traffic being alternated to allow limited flow through the scene. There is no estimated time for full reopening, as investigators continue to comb through evidence and reconstruct the events that led to the deadly crash.
The Colorado State Patrol has not disclosed the causes being considered at this time—whether speed, impairment, weather, or road conditions played a factor remains part of the ongoing investigation. The condition of the semi-truck driver has also not been released.
CSP has issued a public call for witnesses, asking anyone who may have observed the crash or events leading up to it and has not yet spoken to law enforcement to come forward. Witnesses are urged to contact Colorado State Patrol Dispatch at (719) 544-2424.
A Community in Mourning
News of the juvenile’s passing has rippled through the Penrose and surrounding communities, evoking an outpouring of sorrow and condolences. Tragic events such as these leave families, friends, and first responders reeling, and remind the broader public of the fragility of life on the road.
Local officials and safety advocates are once again urging all drivers to practice heightened caution, especially in areas where high-speed travel and large vehicles intersect. They also remind motorists to always use seat belts, observe speed limits, and avoid distractions, especially when children are passengers.
Ongoing Investigation
At this time, CSP continues to investigate the crash in cooperation with local authorities. The names of those involved have not been officially released pending notification of next of kin, and further details are expected as investigators complete their work.
This tragic incident marks another somber chapter in Colorado’s traffic safety records for 2025, and highlights the critical importance of highway awareness and safety protocols. The loss of a young life is a devastating reminder of what’s at stake every time a vehicle takes to the road.
More information will be shared by authorities as it becomes available.