CLEAR CREEK CANYON, Colo. – A tragic crash in Clear Creek Canyon on Tuesday claimed two lives after a man attempting to evade law enforcement collided with another vehicle, authorities said. The incident involved a suspect who was being monitored by a GPS ankle bracelet at the time of the crash.
Pursuit Leading to Fatal Collision
According to the Colorado State Patrol, deputies first tried to stop the suspect, identified as Christopher Moore, near Highway 40 and Highway 6. During the pursuit, Moore reportedly drove the wrong way on Interstate 70, eventually crashing on Highway 6 east of the interstate.
The collision killed an innocent driver, 51-year-old Steven Ainsworth of Arvada, whose black Lexus overturned in Clear Creek following the impact. Moore, the suspect, also died at the scene.
Injuries and Vehicle Damage
A 27-year-old woman riding as a passenger in Moore’s vehicle sustained serious injuries and was transported to a hospital for treatment. Law enforcement described the suspect’s car as severely damaged, leaving debris scattered across the roadway, as per CBS News.
Suspect Background
Christopher Moore was a habitual offender on probation and was being tracked via a GPS ankle monitor. Public records indicate Moore faced previous charges including theft, drug offenses, and escape. Most recently, he was apprehended in Arapahoe County for allegedly stealing a car.
Investigators also linked Moore to approximately two dozen vehicle break-ins in Summit County, Eagle County, and near a Georgetown hotel earlier on the morning of the crash.
Investigation Underway
Sgt. Ivan Alavardo of the Colorado State Patrol stated that the events leading up to the crash will be carefully examined as part of an extensive investigation. “At the end of the day, our conclusions will show what led to the fatal crash,” he said.
A distressed Clear Creek County Sheriff’s deputy reportedly said over the radio following the crash: “One possible fatal, one vehicle in the river. Send everybody.”
Upcoming News Conference
The Clear Creek County Sheriff’s Office has announced a news conference on Thursday morning to provide additional details about the pursuit of Moore and the circumstances surrounding the crash.
What are your thoughts on this deadly pursuit in Clear Creek Canyon? Should authorities reconsider how they monitor high-risk offenders with ankle monitors? Share your opinions in the comments below — your perspective matters.
