Watch CBS News

3 Killed In Crash On Frontage Road Of I-25 Near Larkspur

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Colo. (CBS4) - A deadly crash that killed three people was investigated on Friday evening as backups reached miles along Interstate 25 south of the Denver metro area.

The crash happened on the frontage road along the northbound lanes of I-25 at Greenland where the vehicle plummeted 20 feet into a culvert.

I-25 crash
Copter4 flew over the crash (credit: CBS)

All three killed were in one vehicle, one was a teenager. Investigators worked to determine what led up to the crash but believe the vehicle veered off the interstate to avoid a collision with another vehicle.

i-25 frontage road
Copter4 flew over the crash (credit: CBS)

State troopers believe the SUV was traveling the speed limit along I-25 when it came upon slowed traffic but are investigating witness reports of another vehicle brake-checking or intentionally slamming on the brakes in front of the victims' vehicle prior to the crash.

Investigators said after the SUV struck the grassy embankment, it went airborne for about 50 feet then slammed into the wall of a culvert. All three inside were killed instantly.

"There is a creek that flows here and it's clearly not visible," said Colorado State Patrol Sgt. James Seneca. "Just a bad coincidence that it happened at this particular location."

CDOT - I-25 and Greenland Rd
Backups from the crash along I-25 (credit: CDOT)

There were significant delays in both directions of I-25 in Douglas County after the crash. The interstate remained open during the investigation.

The identity of those killed has not been released but all are male, two possibly in their 40s and a teenager.

The trio was traveling back to Denver from Colorado Springs as part of a family moving business.

greenland ax from morfitt
(credit: CBS)

The Colorado State Patrol is asking for anyone who may have seen the crash or saw another vehicle involved to contact investigators at 303-239-4501.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.