A tragic multi-vehicle crash in Centennial, Colorado, claimed the life of State Senator Faith Winter on Wednesday evening. The five-car collision occurred shortly after 6 p.m. on Interstate 25 near E Dry Creek Road, shutting down part of the highway for several hours. Winter, a Democrat, was the only fatality, while three others sustained injuries. Authorities have not released further information about the condition of the injured individuals as the investigation continues.
Colorado Senate President James Coleman and Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez released a joint statement expressing deep grief and describing Winter as a dedicated public servant whose commitment to Colorado never wavered. Images from CBS Colorado showed an overturned truck and multiple damaged vehicles, highlighting the severity of the incident. According to the sheriff’s office, the roadway reopened shortly before midnight.
Winter, 45, began her political career in the Colorado House of Representatives, where she was first elected in 2014. She won a state Senate seat in 2018, defeating Republican incumbent Beth Martinez Humenik. After redistricting, she represented the 25th Senate District beginning in 2023.
At the time of her death, Winter served as assistant Senate majority leader, the third-highest-ranking position in the chamber. She was term-limited in 2026. Winter is survived by her two children, Tobin and Sienna, and her fiancé, former state Representative Matt Gray.
Widely known as an advocate for transportation, environmental issues, and working families, Winter chaired the Senate Transportation & Energy Committee and served on several others. She held a degree in environmental management and biology from the University of Redlands.
Colorado Governor Jared Polis mourned her death publicly, praising her as a fierce advocate and longtime colleague. Secretary of State Jena Griswold echoed these sentiments, stating that Winter leaves behind a lasting legacy. A party vacancy committee will determine who completes the remaining year of her term.