Update on Dec. 4, 2025: Since this story was published, the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office provided updated information about the circumstances of what was initially reported as a five-vehicle crash. Two crashes occurred near one another on Interstate 25, the sheriff’s office said — one involving two vehicles, and one involving three, the latter of which resulted in the death of Sen. Faith Winter.
State Sen. Faith Winter was killed Wednesday night in a five-vehicle crash that closed northbound Interstate 25 near Centennial, according to news reports.
Colorado Gov. Jared Polis and legislative leaders confirmed Winter’s death in statements before 10 p.m., with Polis ordering that flags be lowered to half-staff in her honor.
On Wednesday night, and reported that Winter died in the crash near Dry Creek Road, which the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office said resulted in one person dead and three injured.
The highway’s northbound lanes were reopened by 11:40 p.m., according to the Colorado Department of Transportation.
“Our state is shaken by the loss of Senator Faith Winter, and I send my deepest condolences to her children, loved ones, friends, and colleagues across our state,” Polis said in a statement. “… I have had the honor of working with her on many issues to improve the lives of every person and family in our great state, and tackling climate change. I am deeply saddened for her family, her friends and colleagues, and her community. Faith’s work and advocacy made Colorado a better state.”
The crash occurred around 6:20 p.m. Wednesday, and at exit 196 for Dry Creek Road, Deputy John Bartmann said.
The cause of the crash is under investigation, and additional information will likely not be released until next week, Bartmann said. No one has been cited or arrested in connection with the crash.
, 45, a Broomfield Democrat, served in the state House from 2015 to 2019, switching to the Senate after she won a seat in the 2018 election. Earlier, she served on the Westminster City Council.
On Wednesday night, Senate President James Coleman and Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez said they were “devastated” by her passing.
“Whether fighting for legislation to support mothers and families, championing groundbreaking transit policy, or simply supporting constituents in moments of need, she brought thoughtfulness, innovation, and humility to every aspect of her work,” they said in a joint statement.
SMFR and are on scene of a multi-vehicle accident on I25 Northbound near Dry Creek Rd. Expect extended delays in the area.
— South Metro Fire Rescue (@SouthMetroPIO)
Sen. Cleave Simpson, the Republican caucus leader in the chamber, said in a statement that Winter’s legacy was “one of courage, kindness and unity.”
“Senator Winter was not only a dedicated public servant but also a bridge-builder,” Simpson said. “She worked tirelessly with colleagues across the aisle, forging strong partnerships with her Republican counterparts. Her ability to listen, collaborate, and find common ground reflected her deep commitment to the people she served and to the integrity of the legislative process.”
House Speaker Julie McCluskie and Majority Leader Monica Duran, both Democrats, said in a statement that Winter “always fought for Colorado’s most vulnerable. Her bravery brought necessary reforms to the Capitol, and her kindness filled the building. We will all miss her dearly.”
They extended condolences to Winter’s family, including her children, as well as to former state Rep. Matt Gray, a fellow Democrat to whom she was engaged.
This is a developing story and may be updated.
Public affairs editor Jon Murray contributed to this story.
