A tragic accident on Wednesday night in Colorado resulted in the death of state Senator Faith Winter and left three others injured. The collision involved five vehicles and occurred on a freeway in Centennial around 6 p.m., according to the Colorado Democratic Congressional Caucus.
Senate President James Coleman and Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez expressed their grief in a joint statement, saying, “We are devastated to learn of the passing of our colleague and friend, Sen. Faith Winter. Today, our caucus mourns the loss of a dedicated public servant whose dedication to the people of Colorado never wavered.”
The accident transpired on Interstate 25 near E. Dry Creek Road, approximately 26 miles southeast of the State Capitol in Denver. While the police have not provided many details about the other individuals involved, reports indicate that three others sustained injuries.
Authorities are currently looking into the circumstances surrounding the crash. Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Deputy John Bartman mentioned it will take time to determine the cause of the incident. Photos from the scene show a truck on its side beside several damaged vehicles on the highway.
Roads were reopened just before midnight after law enforcement had cleared the area. Faith Winter, who was 45 years old, had begun her political journey in 2014 as a member of the Colorado House of Representatives and later took her seat in the Colorado Senate in 2019, defeating the Republican incumbent.
Since 2023, she represented the newly drawn 25th Senate District and held the position of Assistant Senate Majority Leader. Her term was set to conclude in 2026.
Winter is survived by her two children, Tobin and Sienna, along with her fiancé, former state Rep. Matt Gray. She was a strong advocate for transportation and environmental legislation and was actively serving as chair of the Transportation and Energy Committee at the time of her passing.
Governor Jared Polis reacted to the news, stating, “Our state is reeling from the passing of Sen. Faith Winter, and we extend our deepest condolences to her children, loved ones, friends, and colleagues across the state.” He highlighted her advocacy for various important issues over nearly two decades of service. Meanwhile, Colorado Secretary of State Jenna Griswold remembered Winter as a “fiery champion” of her community. Her legacy will not be forgotten, and thoughts are with her family during this difficult time.
The party’s committee will now determine who will take over the remainder of Winter’s term.
