Semi truck driver arrested for deadly crash on Highway 285 near Conifer, Colorado
- Semi driver arrested and facing charges for a deadly crash near Conifer, Colorado.
- Highway 285 reopened after a 14-hour closure following the fatal crash.
- Investigation ongoing into the cause of the accident.
A semi driver, Ignacio Cruz-Mendoza, has been arrested in connection with a deadly crash on Colorado Highway 285. The crash involved a truck owned by Monique Trucking that spilled 47,000 pounds of steel pipes onto five other vehicles. Cruz-Mendoza is facing charges of vehicular homicide, vehicular assault, reckless driving, and driving a commercial vehicle without the required qualifications. He had a commercial license from Mexico but no record of a U.S. driver's license. Witnesses reported the semi was traveling at 60-80 mph in a 45 mph zone before the crash. The deceased was identified as Scott Miller, 64, and another person suffered serious injuries. Cruz-Mendoza is scheduled to appear in court on June 18. Highway 285 was closed for over 12 hours following the crash, with the road reopening after crews cleared the debris. The investigation is ongoing, and the identity of the deceased driver has not been released.