State Patrol investigating serious crash in Rio Grande County

RIO GRANDE COUNTY, Colo. (KRDO) — The Colorado State Patrol is investigating a two car injury crash that happened on Highway 15, at Rio Grande County Road 9 South, about 9 miles south of Monte Vista.

State Troopers said 87-year-old Jerry Lundsford was getting his mail at about 6:30 p.m. Tuesday.

He had stopped his red 2003 Chevy Tracker on the side of Highway 15 at the intersection of Rio Grande County Road 9 South.

When Lundsford had finished getting his mail, he tried to turn west onto CR 9 South.  At the same time a black 2002 Mazda B4000 driven by 71-year-old Steven Baer was driving into the intersection.

According to State Troopers, Baer hit Lundsford’s Chevy when it turned in front of him.  After crashing, the Chevy rolled over and the Mazda ran 130 feet off the road.

Lundsford was taken to the San Luis Valley Regional Medical Center where he was later flown to Penrose Hospital for serious injuries.  

Baer had minor injuries from the crash. Troopers are still investigating the crash.