A tragic five-vehicle crash on Interstate 25 in Centennial, Colorado, claimed the life of Democratic State Sen. Faith Winter, 45, and left three others injured Wednesday evening, prompting an outpouring of condolences from state leaders.
Winter, known for her advocacy on transportation and environmental policy, was the sole fatality in the accident, which occurred near E Dry Creek Road shortly after 6 p.m.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the collision.
Arapahoe County Sheriff Deputy John Bartmann told the Colorado Sun that determining the crash’s cause “is going to take some time.”
Videos of the crash show an overturned truck among several damaged vehicles as crews worked to clear the scene, reopening the highway just before midnight.
The three others involved in the crash sustained injuries, though officials have not disclosed the extent of their conditions.
Winter’s public service career spanned nearly twelve years, according to the New York Post.
She was first elected to the Colorado House of Representatives in 2014 and advanced to the state Senate in 2019 after defeating Republican incumbent Beth Martinez Humenik.
Following the 2023 redistricting, she represented the 25th Senate District and served as Assistant Senate Majority Leader, the chamber’s third-highest-ranking position. She was set to complete her term in 2026 before reaching term limits.
During her tenure, Winter championed issues ranging from transit policy to environmental protection.
She chaired the Transportation & Energy Committee and held membership on the Business, Labor & Technology and Local Government & Housing Committees.
A University of Redlands graduate with a degree in environmental management and biology, Winter earned recognition for her dedication to constituents and her policy expertise across party lines.
Colorado Gov. Jared Polis (D) released a statement expressing sorrow over Winter’s passing: “Our state is shaken by the loss of Senator Faith Winter, and I send my deepest condolences to her children, loved ones, friends, and colleagues across our state. Faith was a fierce advocate for hardworking Coloradans, women, families, and the environment. Her work made Colorado a better state.”
Leadership within the Senate Democratic Caucus echoed the governor’s sentiments.
“We are devastated to learn of the passing of our colleague and friend, Democratic State Senator Faith Winter,” stated Senate President James Coleman and Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez.
“Today, our caucus grieves the loss of a dedicated public servant whose commitment to the people of Colorado never wavered. Her leadership, policy accomplishments, and personal warmth left a lasting impression.”
Winter is survived by her two children, Tobin and Sienna, and her fiancé, former State Rep. Matt Gray.
Lawmakers and colleagues, including State Rep. Shannon Bird, shared messages of grief and remembrance on social media, highlighting Winter’s impact on Colorado politics and her personal generosity in the Capitol.
A party vacancy committee will determine who will serve the remainder of Winter’s final year in office.
The incident has prompted reflection on both the fragility of life for public servants and the sudden effects of tragedy on state governance.
Authorities continue to examine the crash to determine contributing factors, underscoring the ongoing importance of roadway safety and accountability.
