Colorado Springs, CO (August 25, 2025) – A tragic early-morning crash on Sunday claimed the life of a female passenger and left two others seriously injured after a vehicle veered off the road and collided with a tree in the 2300 block of East Platte Ave. Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD) officers responded to the scene around 2:15 AM.
According to authorities, a vehicle traveling eastbound on E Platte Ave left the south side of the roadway and struck a tree. When officers arrived, they discovered multiple occupants in the car. One female victim was pronounced dead at the scene. Two additional individuals sustained serious injuries and were transported to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment.
Police arrested 18-year-old Jayden M. Hendricks, the driver of the vehicle, on suspicion of DUI. Investigators believe alcohol was a contributing factor in the crash, and the case remains under active investigation by CSPD’s Major Crash Team.
Our deepest condolences go out to the family of the woman who lost her life, and we wish a full recovery to the individuals injured in this devastating collision.
DUI-Related Fatal Crashes in Colorado
The deadly crash on E Platte Ave is a stark and painful reminder of the dangers of impaired driving—especially during late-night and early-morning hours. DUI-related collisions remain one of the leading causes of roadway fatalities in Colorado, often involving young drivers and high-speed impacts that result in catastrophic consequences.
In this case, the 18-year-old driver reportedly lost control, leaving the roadway and slamming into a fixed object—a crash pattern often associated with intoxication or driver fatigue. The impact of hitting a tree at high speed is frequently fatal, as it offers no buffer or crumple zone, placing maximum force on vehicle occupants. Tragically, these accidents are often preventable.
Colorado Springs has been actively working to reduce impaired driving incidents through patrol saturation, DUI checkpoints, and public awareness campaigns. However, despite these efforts, crashes involving young drivers and alcohol continue to impact the community deeply. Data from the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) shows that alcohol-related fatalities still make up a significant portion of traffic deaths statewide, with ages 16–24 among the highest risk groups.
The loss of a life in this incident also underscores the emotional and legal aftermath that families and survivors must face. Beyond the grief and pain, victims often endure long-term medical recovery, loss of income, and legal complexities. When crashes involve DUI charges, civil consequences may also arise—making it even more essential for victims and families to understand their rights.
If your life has been affected by a serious or fatal DUI crash in Colorado Springs or El Paso County, Local Accident Reports is here to connect you with trusted medical, legal, and emotional resources. We’re committed to helping victims and families navigate the aftermath with clarity and care. Contact us today to get the support you need.