Colorado State Senator Faith Winter has died following a multi-car crash just south of Denver on Wednesday evening, Nov. 26. She was 45.
Colorado Governor Jared Polis confirmed the tragic news in an emotional statement, saying the state was “shaken” by her sudden loss.
“I send my deepest condolences to her children, loved ones, friends, and colleagues across our state,” Polis wrote, noting that he had known Winter for more than two decades. He described her as “a fierce advocate for hardworking Coloradans, women, and families, and our climate.”
Polis added that Winter’s influence stretched far beyond politics: “I have had the honor of working with her on many issues to improve the lives of every person and family in our great state… Faith’s work and advocacy made Colorado a better state.”
He also ordered flags to be lowered to half-staff in her honor.
State Rep. Shannon Bird expressed her grief on X, calling Winter a “fierce advocate for Westminster and all of Adams County,” and saying she was “heartbroken” by the news.
According to The Colorado Sun, the crash occurred around 6 p.m. in the northbound lanes of Interstate 25 near Dry Creek Road. The Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office reported that one person was killed and three others were injured in the five-vehicle collision. Authorities say the cause of the crash remains under investigation and may take time to determine.
Winter, who was preparing to enter her 12th and final year as a state lawmaker due to term limits, is survived by her son and daughter. She was also engaged to former state Rep. Matt Gray, a fellow Democrat.
Colleagues across Colorado’s political landscape shared tributes following her death. Senate President James Coleman and Senate Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez said they were “devastated,” describing Winter as a colleague whose “presence brought warmth and an invaluable perspective to the Capitol.”
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Colorado House Speaker Julie McCluskie and Majority Leader Monica Duran echoed the sentiment on X, remembering Winter as “an exceptional legislator, a champion for working people, and a steadfast defender of our environment and abortion rights.”
Winter was known for her warm presence at the Capitol, often accompanied by her dog, Queso. The Colorado Sun also noted that her daughter frequently sold Girl Scout cookies outside the legislative chambers — a reflection of Winter’s family-centered approach to public life.
