UPDATE: A tragic four-vehicle crash on Interstate 25 near Loveland has claimed the life of 17-month-old Elijah Manley, confirmed the Larimer County Coroner’s Office. The accident occurred on Tuesday, and the details surrounding this heartbreaking incident are unfolding rapidly.
According to the Colorado State Patrol, the crash involved a box truck, a Lexus GX, a Kia Telluride, and a Chevrolet Silverado hauling a trailer. The incident took place near Crossroads Boulevard as a result of an earlier medical emergency that forced a vehicle to the side of the road for emergency care. Tragically, Elijah was pronounced dead at the scene, while another juvenile and two adults were transported to the hospital for treatment.
Jose Salazar, the 35-year-old driver of the box truck, is now facing serious charges, including child abuse, vehicular homicide while driving under the influence, and vehicular assault. Eyewitness reports detail how Salazar veered from the center lane, striking the Lexus, which then collided with the other vehicles.
Authorities confirmed that no other injuries were reported, but the impact of this crash is being felt deeply in the community. Salazar is scheduled to appear in 8th Judicial District Court in Fort Collins at 8:30 a.m. on December 29, 2023.
In a show of support for Elijah’s family during this unimaginable time, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist them with medical expenses and lost wages. The fundraiser’s description emphasizes the profound sorrow felt by the family, stating, “No words can fully capture the heartbreak of losing a child in a tragic car accident.”
As this story develops, community members and officials are rallying to support the grieving family. The circumstances surrounding the crash highlight the urgent need for safety awareness on the roads, especially in situations involving medical emergencies.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story continues to develop.
