Ouray County, CO — A juvenile girl was rescued Tuesday morning after a vehicle rolled an estimated 320 feet down the side of a mountain, killing two adults in a single-car crash on Red Mountain Pass, according to the Colorado State Patrol.
Car Plunges Down Mountain and Lands in River
The accident occurred just after 8 a.m. on Highway 550 near mile marker 88, south of Ouray. Investigators say a silver Honda Civic veered off the shoulder and tumbled down the mountainside before coming to rest upside-down in the river below.
Troopers confirmed that two adults were pronounced dead at the scene, while a female juvenile passenger remained trapped inside the wreckage.
Rescue and Medical Response
Emergency crews worked for more than three hours to free the juvenile. She was successfully extricated at 11:27 a.m. and transported to a nearby hospital. Her condition has not yet been released.
Authorities closed the southbound lane of Highway 550 during the rescue and investigation. No reopening time was immediately available.
Ongoing Investigation
The cause of the crash remains under investigation as reported by CBS News.
Authorities have not confirmed whether speed, road conditions, or mechanical failure were factors. The Colorado State Patrol is urging anyone who witnessed the incident to contact CSP Dispatch at 970-249-4392.
Mountain Driving Safety in Colorado
High-altitude roads like Red Mountain Pass are known for sharp turns, steep drop-offs, and unpredictable weather. The Colorado Department of Transportation recommends:
- Reducing speed before curves
- Using lower gears for steep descents
- Avoiding distractions and maintaining full attention on the roadway
- Driving with extra caution during winter or wet weather
These safety steps are vital on narrow, cliffside highways where even a momentary lapse can lead to catastrophic accidents.
What to Do in Such Weather and Terrain
If traveling through mountain passes in Colorado:
- Check road conditions before departure using CDOT’s traveler information systems
- Keep emergency gear in your car — including blankets, food, and water
- Avoid travel during heavy snow, rain, or fog unless necessary
- Stay alert for falling rocks and wildlife crossings
Mountain travel demands heightened vigilance, particularly in areas like Highway 550 where crash recovery is difficult and response times may be extended due to terrain.
Do you think more safety barriers should be installed along dangerous mountain highways like Red Mountain Pass? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
