The Colorado football world took to social media to mourn the death of quarterback Dominiq Ponder, who died in a single-vehicle car crash early Sunday morning.
News of the 23-year-old’s passing reverberated around the sport, and several people took to social media to remember the quarterback.
Fellow Colorado quarterback Colton Allen wrote a heartfelt tribute to Ponder on Instagram, while sharing an array of photos of the two during their time with the football program.
“Dom, you were a blessing to so many people,” Allen wrote on Instagram. “You had a presence about you that just made everything better. You brought so much joy to me and everyone around you. I’m grateful for every lift, every practice, every rep, every conversation we got to share. I’ll carry those with me for the rest of my life.
“What happened feels so final. It feels heavy. It hurts. But I know God promises eternal life through faith in Him, and that’s the only thing giving peace right now. This isn’t the end of your story.
“I love you, brother. Thank you for everything. Until we meet again.”
Head coach Deion Sanders also wrote a stirring tribute to his player.
“God please comfort the Ponder family, friends & Loved ones. Dom was one of my favorites!” Sanders wrote 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. Comfort us Lord Comfort us.”
Athletic director Fernando Lovo wrote on X that he was “heartbroken” for Ponder’s family and the university community.
“‘The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.’ Psalm 34:18 We honor his life, his light, and the way he touched this program. Rest in peace, Dominiq,” Lovo wrote.
Bethune-Cookman in Daytona, Fla., where Ponder played before transferring to Colorado, said it was “deeply saddened by the tragic passing.”
Buffaloes’ rival Colorado State said it was “Standing with @CUBuffsFootball and the entire Buffs community during this heartbreaking time” in a social media post.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the Ponder family and all who knew and loved Dominiq,” they continued.
Ponder died after the Tesla Model 3 he was driving struck a guardrail, an electrical pole and then rolled down an embankment before catching on fire, the Colorado State Patrol said in a press release.
His death is being investigated by the vehicular crimes unit, and “the preliminary investigation shows that speed is suspected as a factor,” according to CSP.
Ponder had joined the football team as a walk-on after transferring from Bethune-Cookman in 2024.