AFA Cadet Dies In Clifton Crash

Colorado State Patrol troopers say three cadets from the Air Force Academy were involved in a deadly car accident Saturday morning in Clifton.

All three were riding in a passenger car that troopers say pulled out in front of an oncoming semi before the truck smashed into it.

The driver of the car, Curtis Berenguer, 19, of Michigan, escaped unharmed; his passenger, Michael Downs, 20, of Idaho, suffered injuries and was transported to the hospital; and another passenger who has not been identified died on the scene.

CSP says all three were from out-of-state, currently attending the Air Force Academy.

The driver of the semi, Nathan Humphrey, 51, of Grand Junction, also was not harmed.

The accident happened just after midnight Saturday morning at the intersection of I-70 B and F Road in Clifton.

Troopers say everyone involved was wearing their seat-belt. Authorities do not suspect drugs, alcohol, or excessive speed to be factors in the crash.

CSP says charges are pending against Berenguer, the driver of the car.