The tragedy began on the evening of Wednesday, November 26, 2025, when a multi-vehicle collision occurred on northbound Interstate 25 (I-25) near the Dry Creek Road exit in Centennial, Colorado. According to the local authorities — the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office — the crash involved five vehicles; one person was killed and at least three others sustained injuries. The northbound lanes were shut down in the aftermath, and traffic remained closed for several hours while first responders worked the scene. Shortly afterward, the fatality was confirmed to be State Senator Faith Winter, a 45-year-old Democratic lawmaker originally from Broomfield.

News of Winter’s death sent immediate shock and grief through Colorado’s political community. Prominent state leaders, including Jared Polis — Colorado’s governor — issued public statements. Polis referred to Winter as a “fierce advocate for hardworking Coloradans, women, families, and our climate,” expressing deep condolences to her children, loved ones, friends, and colleagues. The leadership of the state Senate — including Senate President James Coleman and Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez — described her passing as a devastating loss, mourning not only a colleague but a friend whose dedication to public service never wavered. Flags across the state were ordered lowered to half-staff in her honor, underscoring the solemn impact of her loss.

Winter’s political career was marked by steady advancement and a firm commitment to key issues such as transportation, environmental policy, and community welfare. She began her legislative service in 2014 as a member of the Colorado House of Representatives, representing House District 35. In 2018 she successfully ran for the Colorado Senate — unseating the incumbent — and after redistricting she had been serving the 25th District. In September 2023, she was elected Assistant Majority Leader of the Senate, making her one of the most senior Democratic lawmakers in the chamber.

As chair of the Senate’s Transportation & Energy Committee, Winter played a central role in shaping Colorado’s infrastructure and climate policy. She was known for championing measures to modernize transportation funding, expand investment in public transit, reduce vehicle pollution, and pursue environmental sustainability. Her legislative work included co-sponsoring important climate and labor bills, supporting working families, supporting equitable community development, and advocating for women’s rights and reproductive freedoms. Colleagues and constituents remember her not only for policy acumen but also for compassion: she was known to bring her dog to the Capitol, encourage family-friendly values, and often offered support and empathy to others during difficult times.

Beyond her public role, Winter’s passing carries a deeply personal dimension. She is survived by her two children, and by her fiancé, former state Representative Matt Gray, who had been her partner at the time of her death. State leaders and community members have highlighted not only her legislative legacy but the void left by her compassion, leadership, and steady advocacy for ordinary families. For many, the picture is of a devoted public servant whose commitment to environmental, social, and infrastructural progress resonated across partisan lines and touched everyday lives.

With her sudden and tragic death, Winter’s Senate seat is now vacant. According to state procedure, a party vacancy committee will be convened to appoint someone to serve out the remainder of her term.  Meanwhile, Colorado enters a period of reflection and transition — grappling not only with grief and loss but with the challenge of carrying forward the initiatives and vision Winter championed. In a political moment already marked by heated debates over infrastructure, environmental regulation, and social policy, her absence will be deeply felt.