Andrea Banuelos-Salazar, Manuel Cabral-Torres, and children die in fatal Kremmling, Colorado car crash
Fatal Kremmling, Colorado car crash death of Andrea Banuelos-Salazar, Manuel Cabral-Torres, and children
Five members of a Kremmling family, including three young children, tragically lost their lives in a head-on collision along Highway 9 early Monday morning, according to authorities.
The deadly crash occurred around 7:15 a.m. when a northbound Ford F-150 reportedly veered into the southbound lane, colliding with a GMC Yukon traveling in the opposite direction. The impact caused both vehicles to erupt in flames. Despite efforts by emergency crews, all five individuals in the Yukon were pronounced dead at the scene.
The victims have been identified by the Grand County Coroner’s Office as 34-year-old Manuel Cabral-Torres, 30-year-old Andrea Banuelos-Salazar, and their children: 12-year-old Maria Cabral-Banuelos, 5-year-old Manuel Cabral-Banuelos, and 2-year-old Andres Cabral-Banuelos.
The driver of the Ford F-150, a 25-year-old man from Parker, was transported by air to a hospital with life-threatening injuries. His identity has not been released. Authorities with the Colorado State Patrol are continuing to investigate the cause of the crash.
The Grand County Coroner’s Office expressed condolences, describing the loss as “an unspeakable tragedy” and extended sympathy to the family’s loved ones and the wider community. First responders were also recognized for their efforts at the crash scene.
A GoFundMe campaign launched by relatives is seeking $40,000 to cover funeral and transportation expenses. By Wednesday afternoon, nearly $22,000 had been raised from 287 contributors.
The West Grand School District confirmed that the family may have had ties to the district and shared its support for students and community members affected by the tragedy.
Colorado State Patrol Chief Matthew C. Packard issued a public appeal addressing the rise in recent head-on collisions, many of which have stemmed from impairment, reckless driving, or inattention. He urged drivers to take road safety personally and hold each other accountable to help prevent further loss of life.
Highway 9 was closed for several hours following the incident. Authorities are encouraging anyone who witnessed the crash and has not yet spoken with investigators to contact CSP Dispatch at 970-249-4392, referencing case VC25269.
