Clear Creek County, CO (January 30, 2026) – A devastating collision involving a Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) snow plow and several vehicles led to one confirmed fatality and multiple injuries on I-70 near Herman Gulch on January 25.
According to officials with the Colorado State Patrol, the incident unfolded just after 8:50 a.m. at milepost 218, east of the Eisenhower Tunnel. A CDOT plow traveling westbound reportedly lost control, broke through the cable median barrier, and entered the eastbound lanes of I-70.
The plow first struck a Toyota Tacoma before that vehicle veered across the median and hit a BMW traveling in the westbound direction. The plow continued forward, colliding with a sprinter van carrying a youth hockey team from California. The van veered off the road and came to rest in an embankment, while the plow eventually stopped on the shoulder.
Authorities confirmed that the van’s driver died at the scene. Eight others from the van were taken to nearby hospitals, including five teens. One of the young passengers was airlifted to a trauma center with life-threatening injuries. The exact conditions of the other victims have not been disclosed.
Clear Creek County Sheriff’s Office and Colorado State Patrol responded immediately to the incident, closing eastbound I-70 at Exit 205 in Silverthorne for several hours. Traffic between Silverthorne and the tunnel had to be turned around during the investigation and cleanup.
The accident occurred on January 25 and is being investigated by the CSP Vehicular Crimes Unit. Authorities have not released the identities of those involved. The Victim Advocate team was activated to support the impacted passengers and their families.
We extend our sincere condolences to those affected by this tragic event and wish strength and healing to all injured.
