Colorado quarterback Dominiq Ponder has died, coach Deion Sanders and the program announced Sunday evening.

The 23-year-old was entering his junior season with the Buffaloes after joining the program as a transfer from Bethune Cookman in 2024 and made his collegiate debut last fall.

“God, please comfort the entire Ponder family during this difficult time,” Coach Prime said. ”Dominiq was one of my favorites because of his passion, his heart and his willingness to go beyond what was asked. He will certainly be remembered, missed, and in our thoughts and prayers.”     

The Opa Locka, Fla. native was involved in a single-vehicle crash in Boulder early Sunday morning, according to a release from the Colorado State Patrol.

Ponder was driving a 2023 Tesla Model 3 and heading westbound on Baseline Road when he lost control on a right-hand curve around 3 a.m.

“The Tesla went across the eastbound lane and hit a guardrail,” the release says. “The vehicle continued through the guardrail. The Tesla then struck an electrical line pole and rolled down an embankment landing on its wheels and catching on fire.”

Ponder was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Buffs are set to begin spring practices on Monday morning. Players and coaches have been posting tributes to their late teammate throughout the day.

“The entire CU Athletics family is devastated at the tragic passing of Dominiq Ponder,” athletic director Fernando Lovo said. “He epitomized the values of passion, enthusiasm, leadership, toughness, and intelligence that were revered by his teammates and coaches alike. Our hearts go out to his family and all of his teammates during this difficult time.”