Nurse killed in Fremont County crash

A 32-year-old nurse died as the result of a one-car crash Sunday morning which likely was caused by snowy and icy conditions.

According to Fremont County Coroner Dr. Dorothy Twellman, the victim was identified as Kristen Lawson, 32, of Florence. The Parkview nurse was on her way to work when the crash happened likely about 6 a.m., Twellman said.

According to the Colorado State Patrol, the accident occurred on Colorado 115 three miles northeast of Florence between Florence and Penrose. Lawson lost control on the snowy, icy road and her 2005 Saturn sedan traveled down into a ravine partially filled with water.

The accident was reported about 11 a.m. but the crash likely occurred earlier, according to Trooper Nate Reid. “The lone occupant of the vehicle died on scene,” Reid said. “It is not known if she was wearing a seat belt.” Twellman said an autopsy will be performed today. She said Lawson is survived by her husband Ryan Lawson, a co-owner of Fremont Motorsports in Florence, and a 3-year-old child.

One lane of the highway was closed for about three hours to allow for the investigation.