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Daniel Groves, Colorado State Trooper, Dies After Accident On Interstate 76

ROGGEN, Colo. (CBS4) - A Colorado State Patrol corporal died after he was struck by a car late Wednesday morning on Interstate 76. Cpl. Daniel Groves was struck by a vehicle in blizzard conditions in Weld County near Roggen, halfway between Brighton and Fort Morgan.

Daniel Groves copy
Cpl. Daniel Groves (credit: Colorado State Patrol)

Groves, 52, was at the scene of a vehicle that slid off the westbound lanes of the interstate near mile marker 47. He was outside his patrol car when a 2001 Volvo lost control and hit him.

The driver of the Volvo has been identified as John Carpenter, 58, of Centennial.

Groves was rushed to Platte Valley Medical Center where he was declared dead a short time after arrival.

Carpenter was also transported to the hospital with moderate injuries. High speed and poor driving conditions are being investigated as possible contributing factors.

Groves began his career with the Colorado State Patrol in July 2007.

Gov. Jared Polis ordered flags be lowered to half-staff across the state on all public buildings immediately, until sunset on the day of Groves' memorial service.

"We mourn the loss of Corporal Groves and keep his loved ones in our thoughts and prayers," Governor Jared Polis said. "Corporal Groves passed away helping a driver in need -- a tragic reminder that every single day, the men and women of the Colorado State Patrol put their lives on the line to keep Coloradans safe. We cannot thank them enough for their service, their sacrifice, and their dedication to our state."

At noon I-76 was closed from Commerce City to the Colorado-Nebraska border due to heavy snow from the March blizzard currently blasting the state of Colorado.

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