Authorities in Brighton, Colorado, have arrested a young man following a fatal crash that occurred in the early hours of the morning. The incident took place around 12:30 a.m. at the intersection of Weld County Road 2.5 and Highway 85, just northeast of Denver.
Details of the Crash
A Ford SUV allegedly ran a stop sign, leading to a collision with a GMC SUV that was traveling north on the highway. The impact ejected two passengers from the Ford SUV. Unfortunately, one individual was pronounced dead at the scene, while another suffered serious injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital.
Victims and Injuries
- One deceased, identity pending notification of next of kin
- One seriously injured passenger from the Ford
- Occupants of the GMC SUV were also hospitalized
Suspect in Custody
Twenty-year-old Erik Diaz Olivas was one of the individuals who fled the scene after the crash. He was located shortly after the incident and subsequently hospitalized for his injuries. Following his release, he was taken into custody.
Charges Against Diaz Olivas
Diaz Olivas faces multiple charges related to the incident, including:
- DUI vehicular homicide
- Reckless endangerment
- Failure to display proof of insurance
- Driving after revocation
- Failure to remain at the scene
- Vehicular assault
- Failure to use a seat belt
- Failure to obey a traffic control device
- Possession or consumption of alcohol under the age of 21
Investigation Ongoing
The investigation into the crash is still active. Authorities believe that the deceased individual may have been struck by another vehicle after the initial collision. However, the driver of that vehicle did not remain at the scene, and police currently lack information about it.
As cleanup efforts took place, authorities closed the highway for several hours. The Brighton Police Department is encouraging anyone with information about the crash to reach out at (303) 655-8740.
