In the early hours of Sunday, Morgan County residents were spared a potentially deadly crash when a Colorado State Patrol (CSP) trooper intervened on Interstate 76. Around 2:20 a.m., CSP received multiple calls reporting a vehicle traveling westbound in the eastbound lanes near Fort Morgan.
Trooper’s decisive action
Responding officers located a Honda moving against traffic. Rather than waiting for the driver to correct course, the trooper activated his emergency lights and deliberately collided head‑on with the Honda, bringing the vehicle to an immediate stop. The maneuver prevented the wrong‑way driver from entering the flow of oncoming traffic and likely averted a serious multi‑vehicle collision.
Arrest and charges
After the impact, the trooper exited his patrol car and placed the driver, identified as 36‑year‑old Claudia Rodriguez of Sterling, under arrest. Rodriguez now faces charges that include driving the wrong way on a highway, reckless driving and any related offenses cited by Morgan County officials.
Medical care and custody
Both the trooper and Rodriguez were evaluated at a local medical facility. The trooper sustained only minor injuries and was released after treatment. Rodriguez was transported to a hospital for assessment before being booked into the Morgan County Jail.
Road closure and reopening
Following the incident, CSP closed the affected stretch of I‑76 for several hours to secure the scene, conduct investigations and ensure the safety of other motorists. The highway reopened to traffic at approximately 6:45 a.m., allowing commuters to resume their morning journeys.
Community impact
The swift response underscores CSP’s commitment to protecting Colorado’s roadways, especially in rural corridors where traffic volumes can be low but the consequences of a wrong‑way driver are severe. Local officials praised the trooper’s quick judgment, noting that the decisive action likely saved lives and prevented property damage.
Residents are reminded to remain vigilant while driving at night and to report any suspicious or dangerous behavior on the highways. CSP encourages the public to contact the agency’s non‑emergency line for any traffic‑related concerns.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
