Deadly New Year’s Eve crash shuts down Highway 160 in both directions near Walsenburg
HUERFANO COUNTY, Colo. (KRDO) -- One man is dead after a deadly crash along Highway 160 near Walsenburg on New Year's Eve.
Colorado State Patrol reports the accident happened at 5:25 p.m., half-a-mile west of Walsenburg.
Investigators say a 2013 Ford F-150 was traveling west on Highway 160 when it crossed the double yellow line into oncoming traffic. The Ford collided head-on with a 2015 Peterbilt semi-truck pulling a box trailer.
According to CSP, the driver of the Ford was ejected and died. CSP now reports the driver of the semi was injured and was transported to Spanish Peaks Medical Center with serious injuries.
Deputies have not released the identification of the Ford driver, pending notification of next-of-kin. They did identify the driver of the semi, Jeffrey Mikel of Aztec, NM.
CSP says both drivers were wearing their seatbelts.
Highway 160 was shut down near mile marker 303 in both directions while investigators worked on the scene. CSP confirmed a hazmat crew also responded to the scene, saying more than 50 gallons of fuel was spilled from the semi.
Investigators believe excessive speed and improper passing played a factor in the crash. However, drugs and alcohol are not suspected as contributing factors at this time. This crash is still under investigation.
