In a heartbreaking DUI incident northeast of Denver, a crash allegedly caused by a suspected impaired driver resulted in at least one fatality and multiple serious injuries. According to the original news report, authorities arrested a 20-year-old man on suspicion of vehicular homicide — DUI and other serious offenses after the crash occurred at the intersection of Weld County Road 2.5 and U.S. Highway 85.
Summary of the Collision
In the early hours of December 28, 2025, a Ford SUV reportedly failed to stop at a stop sign and collided with a GMC SUV traveling north on Highway 85 near Brighton. Two occupants of the Ford were ejected from the vehicle; one was hospitalized with severe injuries, while the other was pronounced dead at the scene. There is preliminary indication that the deceased individual may have been struck by a vehicle that fled the scene after the initial collision.
After occupants of the Ford fled on foot, officers located them nearby. One person sustained injuries and received medical treatment, and 20-year-old Erik Diaz Olivas was taken into custody and booked into the Weld County Jail. Sources are reporting that he now faces multiple criminal charges, including vehicular homicide DUI, reckless endangerment, vehicular assault, failure to remain at the scene, driving after revocation, and underage alcohol possession.
Legal Issues and Liability in Colorado DUI Crashes
When a negligent driver’s recklessness causes a collision in Colorado, that conduct can give rise to both criminal charges and civil liability for serious harm. Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs owe a duty of care to others on the road. A breach of that duty — such as impaired driving or ignoring traffic control devices — can establish negligence and make the at-fault driver responsible for resulting injuries and losses.
In fatal cases like this one, families may pursue a wrongful death claim to recover damages related to funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and more. Surviving victims with catastrophic injuries may seek compensation for medical treatment, long-term care, lost income, and pain and suffering.
How a Personal Injury Attorney Can Help You
If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a collision caused by an intoxicated driver:
- A skilled car accident lawyer can investigate the crash details and evidence, including toxicology reports and collision reconstruction.
- Your attorney can determine whether another party’s negligence contributed to your injuries and pursue legal action on your behalf.
- We can help preserve your rights under Colorado’s comparative negligence laws and guide you through the insurance claims process.
For collisions involving larger vehicles or complex liability issues, our truck accident lawyers have experience handling those specialized cases as well.
Colorado Wrongful Death and Pursuing Justice
When a loved one dies because of another driver’s negligence or impairment, Colorado law allows for a wrongful death action on behalf of surviving family members. These claims seek fair compensation for financial and emotional losses, while holding negligent parties accountable for their conduct.
A knowledgeable personal injury attorney can evaluate your case and advise you on the best legal path forward.
Get Trusted Legal Support
Traffic collisions caused by impaired or negligent drivers can devastate families physically, emotionally, and financially. If your life has been affected by a collision like the one reported here (see original news article: 20-year-old arrested, facing charges of vehicular homicide DUI after fatal crash northeast of Denver metro area), you deserve experienced legal representation.
Contact the experienced attorneys at Colorado Trial Lawyers today. Our team offers compassionate guidance and aggressive advocacy for victims of negligence. Reach out now for a free consultation to discuss your case and protect your rights: Contact Us