**Published:** July 21, 2025 (updated July 21 at 12:38 PM MDT) (Source: CBS News Colorado)

1. Crash Overview & Timeline

When: Early Monday morning (July 21, 2025), just before 5:30 a.m. MDT.
Where: Northbound lanes of U.S. Highway 285 near the intersection with Colorado State Highway 8, just west of Morrison.
The initial crash prompted authorities to close northbound lanes, with the southbound lanes following—both remained closed for roughly six hours.

2. What Happened

According to the Colorado State Patrol, the accident involved five people across three vehicles.
The suspect: a driver operating an Acura RL, traveling north in the wrong direction, striking two vehicles.
After impacting a car—whose driver was hospitalized “as a precaution”—the Acura continued and collided with a third vehicle carrying a male driver and female passenger. While the passenger survived, the male driver died at the hospital.
The Acura driver sustained life-threatening injuries and was taken to a hospital.
No names or charges have been disclosed yet.

3. Impact on Traffic

The crash triggered a full closure of both northbound and southbound lanes, severely impacting morning commuters and motorists in the area.
The total closure spanned approximately six hours, until lanes reopened later in the morning.
Drivers were strongly advised to avoid the area and expect significant delays.

4. Ongoing Investigation

The Colorado State Patrol and Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office are conducting investigations, focusing on:
– What led the Acura onto the highway in the wrong direction.
– Whether impairment, mechanical issues, or other factors were involved.
Findings from accident reconstruction and witness statements will play a key role in determining fault and charges.

5. Broader Context & Safety Insights

While tragic, such crashes serve as reminders of:
– Wrong‑way driver dangers: These rare collisions often result in catastrophic consequences.
– Increased risk in early hours: Reduced visibility, fatigue, or impairment can lead to mistaken highway entries.
– Importance of vigilance: Motorists should stay alert for road signs and headlights approaching against traffic.
– Relying on official updates: Using traffic reports, GPS reroutes, and local alerts is essential.

Safety Tips for Travelers

1. Stick to well-lit routes in early morning or late-night hours.
2. Watch for signs and pavement markings.
3. Avoid distractions.
4. Trust your gut: If something feels off—turn around or stop safely.
5. Stay informed via local traffic apps or CDOT alerts.

Final Thoughts

This tragedy on Highway 285 stands as a stark warning of the dangers posed by wrong-way drivers. Authorities are working diligently to piece together why this driver entered northbound lanes, with further updates expected as the investigation progresses. For the traveling public, this event underscores the importance of highway awareness, especially during early-hour commutes.

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If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Colorado, you don’t have to face it alone. Attorney Aaron Israels understands what you’re going through — and he’s here to help you get the money you deserve.

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