Colorado Springs, CO Pedestrian Anthony Dutchak Passes Away After Tragic I-25 On-Ramp Crash Shocks Community
Colorado Springs, Colorado – Tragedy struck early Monday morning when pedestrian Anthony Dutchak, 36, was struck on an I-25 on-ramp, leaving the community shaken. The incident occurred just before 7:00 a.m., sending emergency responders rushing to the scene in an attempt to save the man’s life. Despite their efforts, Dutchak passed away at the location.
Authorities confirmed that Dutchak was walking along the northbound on-ramp near Garden of the Gods Road when a vehicle traveling at high speed struck him. Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with debris scattered across the roadway. The driver remained at the scene and is cooperating with police.
Colorado Springs Police Department spokesperson Lt. Sarah Jenkins emphasized that Dutchak’s passing is a reminder of the dangers pedestrians face on busy highways. “This is a devastating loss, and our thoughts are with the family and friends of Mr. Dutchak,” Jenkins said.
The I-25 on-ramp was temporarily closed for several hours while investigators documented the scene, interviewed witnesses, and reviewed surveillance footage. Traffic delays were reported across the area, leaving commuters frustrated yet understanding the necessity of a thorough investigation.
Dutchak, a lifelong resident of Colorado Springs, was known by family and friends as a kind and compassionate individual. Colleagues describe him as someone who always went out of his way to help others, a trait that made this loss deeply felt across multiple circles in the community.
Local pedestrian safety advocates expressed concern following the incident, noting that the stretch of highway has seen multiple close calls in recent years. “We need more safety measures and clearer signage for both drivers and pedestrians,” said Andrea Miller, a representative from the Colorado Springs Pedestrian Alliance.
Community members left flowers and notes near the location where Dutchak passed away, creating a temporary memorial that highlighted the collective grief and shock. Social media posts praising Dutchak’s generosity and spirit quickly went viral, further demonstrating the impact he had on those around him.
The Colorado Department of Transportation has pledged to evaluate the on-ramp area to identify potential improvements that could prevent future tragedies. This includes considering better lighting, pedestrian barriers, and clearer markings to reduce the risk of accidents in high-traffic zones.
Family members issued a statement requesting privacy during their time of mourning while thanking first responders for their swift response. “Anthony touched so many lives,” the statement read. “We ask that the community respects our grief as we navigate this unimaginable loss.”
The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities seeking any additional witnesses who may have seen the accident. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Colorado Springs Police Department. In the meantime, the city continues to mourn Anthony Dutchak, a life cut tragically short yet remembered fondly by all who knew him
