The autopsy of former Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Dominiq Ponder has been released following his death.
Ponder, 23, was killed in a single-car accident last month. Ponder, who was driving a 2023 Tesla Model 3, lost control on a curve and went across another lane. His car struck a guardrail and then an electrical line pole, before rolling down an embankment and catching on fire. Ponder was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash.
"The entire CU Athletics family is devastated at the tragic passing of Dominiq Ponder," Colorado athletic director Fernando Lovo said in a statement. "He epitomized the values of passion, enthusiasm, leadership, toughness, and intelligence that were revered by his teammates and coaches alike. Our hearts go out to his family and all of his teammates during this difficult time."
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Ponder, a third-year quarterback, had spent the past two seasons with Colorado after transferring from Bethune-Cookman. He appeared in two games last season.
"Dom was one of my favorites!" Colorado coach Deion Sanderswrote on X. "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."
The official autopsy is out on Tuesday, April 7
According to the autopsy results, Ponder had twice the legal limit of alcohol in his system at the time of the crash.
"According to the medical examiner's autopsy report, obtained by TMZ Sports, Ponder's blood-alcohol content was recorded at .167 g/100 mL -- the legal limit in Colorado is 0.08," TMZ Sports reported.
"The medical examiner also listed his cause of death as multiple blunt force injuries the 23-year-old suffered as a result of the crash."
His mother released a heartfelt statement.
"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," she told USA TODAY.
