COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Authorities have identified the victim of a fatal traffic crash on East Platte Avenue that occurred in late August as 22-year-old Jessenya Gaytan, the Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD) confirmed Wednesday. The incident has left family, friends, and the broader Colorado Springs community grappling with a sudden and tragic loss.
According to CSPD, the crash took place in the early hours of August 24, when officers were dispatched around 2:15 a.m. to respond to a serious traffic collision. Initial reports indicate that a vehicle traveling eastbound on Platte Avenue veered off the south side of the road and struck a tree. The force of the impact was severe, and first responders arriving at the scene found Gaytan inside the vehicle. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
Two other individuals were also inside the vehicle at the time of the crash. Both sustained serious injuries and were transported to a local hospital for treatment. While their conditions have not been publicly detailed, police confirmed that they survived. Authorities have noted that alcohol appears to have been a contributing factor in the incident, though the investigation remains ongoing as investigators work to determine all circumstances surrounding the crash.
“This tragic incident is a sobering reminder of the dangers associated with impaired driving,” said a CSPD spokesperson. “We urge all drivers to exercise caution and make responsible choices behind the wheel. Even a brief lapse in judgment can have life-altering consequences for drivers, passengers, and the broader community.”
The crash marks the 38th traffic-related death in Colorado Springs this year, a slight increase from the 37 fatalities reported at the same time last year. Over the past 365 days, the city has recorded 50 traffic fatalities, underscoring ongoing challenges related to traffic safety in the region. CSPD and community leaders emphasize the importance of continued public awareness campaigns, law enforcement initiatives, and education efforts aimed at reducing preventable roadway deaths.
CSPD continues to investigate the crash thoroughly, reviewing factors including vehicle speed, road conditions, driver behavior, and the presence of alcohol or other impairing substances. Investigators are committed to providing clarity for the victims’ families and holding accountable any parties found responsible for contributing to the tragic incident.
The death of Jessenya Gaytan has left a profound impact on her loved ones and the broader Colorado Springs community. Tributes have poured in from family, friends, and neighbors, who describe her as a vibrant young woman whose life was tragically cut short. As the investigation progresses, officials are urging all drivers to exercise caution, adhere to traffic regulations, and avoid impaired driving in order to prevent further loss of life on Colorado Springs roadways.
“This is a heartbreaking reminder of how quickly life can change on the road,” said the CSPD spokesperson. “We hope that through education, awareness, and responsible behavior, future tragedies like this can be prevented.”
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