Pagosa Springs, CO — A 23-year-old truck driver from New York was killed Monday morning after being ejected from his semi-truck as it plunged off Wolf Creek Pass, a notoriously steep route in the San Juan Mountains.
According to the Colorado State Patrol, the crash occurred around 8:30 a.m. when the driver, hauling canned beverages in a 2020 Freightliner, lost control of the vehicle while descending U.S. Highway 160.
Investigators said the semi-truck was traveling at an excessive speed before it smashed through the left-hand guardrail, struck a barrier wall, and split open, scattering debris and cargo across the road.
Tragic Scene at the Mountainside
The tractor-trailer soared down a steep cliff, ejecting the driver from the cab. Authorities described the crash site as a “large debris scene” extending from the highway down the mountain slope, making it difficult for crews to immediately locate the victim.
After an extensive search, the driver was found dead nearby, officials confirmed.
Missed Runaway Ramp and Brake Failure
Investigators said the driver failed to use a runaway truck ramp located roughly 1.5 miles from where the vehicle ultimately crashed. Witnesses reported seeing smoke coming from the truck’s brakes, suggesting they may have overheated as the vehicle barreled downhill uncontrollably.
The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) mandates that commercial trucks maintain a maximum speed of 25 mph while descending Wolf Creek Pass, which features a 7% downhill grade and sharp switchback curves.
Dangerous Reputation of Wolf Creek Pass
Wolf Creek Pass, which crosses the Continental Divide, has long been considered one of the most hazardous stretches of mountain highway in Colorado. CDOT data reveals that between 2015 and 2019, there were 47 semi-truck crashes on the west side of the pass — three of which were fatal.
Most accidents occur near the Wolf Creek scenic outlook area, where the road curves sharply and descends toward the base of the mountain.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the crash, including whether speed, brake failure, or inexperience played a role. The driver’s name has not been released pending family notification.
Wolf Creek Pass remains open to traffic, but transportation officials have urged commercial truck drivers to use extreme caution, check their brakes, and familiarize themselves with the runaway ramp locations before descending.
Conclusion
Local drivers and residents familiar with the route have expressed grief over the accident, calling it a somber reminder of the dangers of hauling heavy loads through mountain passes.
One local resident told the Denver Post, “Every year, we see truckers lose control coming down that mountain. It’s heartbreaking — it’s a steep, dangerous road that demands respect.”
What safety measures do you think could help prevent tragic crashes on Colorado’s steep mountain roads like Wolf Creek Pass? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
