UPDATE: The tragic loss of a 17-month-old boy in a four-vehicle crash on Interstate 25 near Loveland has been confirmed by the Larimer County Coroner’s Office. Elijah Manley was pronounced dead at the scene following the collision on Tuesday, which also resulted in injuries to another juvenile and two adults in the vehicle he was riding in.
The crash occurred near Crossroads Boulevard and was linked to an earlier incident involving a vehicle that had to pull over for a medical emergency. According to a release from the Colorado State Patrol, the subsequent collision involved a box truck, a Lexus GX, a Kia Telluride, and a Chevrolet Silverado hauling a trailer.
Authorities report that Jose Salazar, the 35-year-old driver of the box truck, is facing severe charges including child abuse, vehicular homicide while driving under the influence, and vehicular assault. Initial investigations reveal that Salazar veered from the center lane and struck the Lexus, which was then pushed into other vehicles.
Emergency responders transported two adults and one child from the Lexus to the hospital, but tragically, Elijah did not survive. This devastating incident has left the community in shock and mourning.
In response to the tragedy, a GoFundMe has been established to assist Elijah’s family during this unimaginable time. The fundraiser aims to support the family as they navigate lost wages and unexpected expenses. The campaign description states, “No words can fully capture the heartbreak of losing a child in a tragic car accident, and this family is now walking through an unimaginable season of grief.”
Salazar is scheduled to appear in the 8th Judicial District Court in Fort Collins at 8:30 a.m. on December 29, 2023. The community is urged to stay updated on this developing situation as further details emerge.
This heartbreaking event highlights the urgent need for road safety and awareness. Our thoughts are with Elijah’s family and all those affected by this tragic accident.
