Buffs QB Ponder’s BAC double limit in fatal crash

Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Dominiq Ponder had a blood alcohol level more than twice the legal limit for driving under the influence in Colorado when he died in a single-car crash near Boulder over a month ago, according to the autopsy report from the Boulder County Coroner’s Office.

Th 23-year-old crashed a 2023 Tesla into a curve and hit a guardrail, then the car hit an electrical line pole and rolled down an embankment.

Ponder’s blood alcohol level was .167, according to the autopsy report. The limit is 0.08 in Colorado. There is a lower limit, of .05, for driving while ability impaired.

The autopsy report lists “multiple blunt force injuries” as the cause of death and “accident” as the manner of death.

The Colorado State Patrol is still investigating multiple factors like speed and impairment.

“If anything good can come from this loss, it’s the conversations it can start about responsible decision-making, supporting young adults, and making good choices even in ordinary moments,” Ponder’s mom, Catrina Hughes shared. “One bad decision can alter everything.”

Ponder threw one pass for the Buffs last year, late in a 52-17 loss to the Arizona Wildcats. He also played briefly at FCS Bethune-Cookman University in 2023, going for 2-for-8 for 33 yards there before transferring to Georgia Tech and then eventually on to CU.

“Dominiq was one of my favorites because of his passion, his heart and his willingness to go beyond what was asked,” Buffs coach Deion Sanders said in as statement at the time. “He will certainly be remembered, missed, and in our thoughts and prayers.”

God please comfort the Ponder family, friends & Loved ones. Dom was one of my favorites! He was Loved, Respected & a Born Leader. Let’s pray for all that knew him & had the opportunity to be in his presence. Lord you’re receiving a good 1. Comfort us Lord Comfort us. #CoachPrime pic.twitter.com/2R7BAVyZ8u

— COACH PRIME (@DeionSanders) March 1, 2026

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