Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Dominiq Ponder had twice the legal level of alcohol in his blood at the time of his fatal car crash on March 1, according to an autopsy report from the Boulder County Coroner’s Office.
The 23-year-old died after losing control of his Tesla on a curve and colliding with a guardrail. He then struck a utility pole before rolling down an embankment.
The report also notes his cause of death as “multiple blunt force injuries.”
After the accident, his family started a foundation in Ponder’s honor to help teach young people and student-athletes how to make responsible decisions.
“Kids need to know that it’s okay to step in, take keys, call a ride, call a parent, speak up, do anything you can do. One small decision can save a life,” Ponder’s mother Catrina Hughes told USA Today. “Don’t be afraid, even if it’s uncomfortable. A difficult conversation is easier than a lifetime of loss.”
Ponder appeared in two games for the Buffaloes last season, who will wear a jersey patch in his honor in the upcoming season.
James Parker contributed to this story.
