An official cause of death has been announced for the Colorado Buffaloes quarterback dead at 23 years old.
Dominiq Ponder, 23, was killed over the weekend. He was entering his third season with the Colorado Buffaloes football program. Ponde, a third-year sophomore from Opa Locka, Florida, had transferred into the program from Bethune-Cookman.
"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."
Deion Sanders said that he was "one of his favorites."
"God please comfort the Ponder family, friends & Loved ones. Dom was one of my favorites! 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. Comfort us Lord Comfort us," he wrote.
Ponder, tragically, was killed in a single-car accident.
Official cause of death announced for Dominiq Ponder
An official cause of death was announced for Ponder.
"According to the Colorado State Patrol, the crash occurred at around 3 a.m. Sunday in Boulder County. Police said Ponder, who was driving a 2023 Tesla Model 3, lost control on a curve, and the car went across the eastbound lane, striking a guardrail and then an electrical line pole, before rolling down an embankment and catching on fire," ESPN reported.
Police added that a preliminary investigation "shows that speed is suspected as a factor," though a full investigation will take place.
Our thoughts are with his friends and family members during this difficult time.
May he rest in peace.