Semi-trailer driver arrested and charged after fatal crash on Highway 285 near Conifer in Colorado foothills

A tractor-trailer driver was arrested and charged in connection with a fatal crash on Colorado Highway 285 on Tuesday that kept the busy highway closed for more than 12 hours.

Ignacio Cruz-Mendoza, 47, faces charges of negligent homicide, negligent assault, reckless driving and operating an unlicensed commercial vehicle (no driver’s license or commercial driver’s license).

The deadly accident happened Tuesday afternoon. Investigators said the truck was traveling south when it left the roadway and rolled onto its side near Conifer. The truck spilled steel pipe onto five other vehicles near Conifer Tuesday afternoon.

According to the affidavit, Cruz-Mendoza had a “valid” commercial driver’s license from Mexico but no record for a U.S. driver’s license. His driving history also includes two 2022 convictions for speeding and driving without legally required equipment in Pennsylvania. The tractor-trailer’s 5th axle brakes were also “far” below minimum requirements.

The affidavit states that during an interview with investigators, Cruz-Mendoza claimed that he had driven a commercial motor vehicle for the past seven years while living in the United States.

Witnesses told investigators the tractor-trailer was traveling 60 to 80 miles per hour before the crash, in a zone where the speed limit is 45 miles per hour, the affidavit said.

The Colorado State Patrol identified the deceased as Scott Miller, 64. Another person involved in the accident suffered serious bodily injuries.

Cruz-Mendoza is scheduled to appear in Jefferson County Court for a hearing on June 18.