State Senator Faith Winter Dies in Denver Car Crash

DENVER, Colorado — State Senator Faith Winter, a Democrat from Broomfield, was killed Wednesday evening in a multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 25, south of Denver. The accident occurred around 6 p.m. near Dry Creek Road.

According to Deputy John Bartmann of the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office, the crash involved five vehicles, resulting in one death and three injuries. The cause of the incident is currently under investigation.

While the sheriff’s office has not confirmed the identity of the deceased, The Colorado Sun reported that Winter, 45, was the victim. Her death was later confirmed by prominent Democratic leaders at the Capitol.

Winter, a mother of two, served as chair of the Senate Transportation Committee and was in her 12th year as a state lawmaker due to term limits.

Leaders from the Colorado Senate expressed their grief. Senate President James Coleman and Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez stated in a joint message, “We are devastated by the loss of a colleague whose presence brought warmth and an invaluable perspective to the Capitol.”

Governor Jared Polis also expressed his sorrow, calling Winter a “fierce advocate” for Coloradans. He noted their longstanding friendship and said, “Her work and advocacy made Colorado a better state.” Polis ordered flags to be lowered to half-staff in her honor.

Known for her passion for transportation and environmental issues, Winter was instrumental in legislation that raised significant funds for transportation projects. She was also recognized for her efforts in improving workplace harassment policies in the Colorado legislature following her own experience with harassment.

Winter’s contributions extended beyond the legislature, as she worked to empower Democratic women nationwide to run for office. She faced personal health challenges during her tenure, including a serious illness in 2022 and treatment for alcoholism earlier this year.

The Colorado Democratic Party will convene a vacancy committee to fill Winter’s seat in Senate District 25. This story is developing and will be updated as more information becomes available.