CDOT Grieves Loss of David Morris

May 16, 2015 - Southwestern Colorado/CDOT Region 5 - Chafee County, CO -- A tragic accident on US 50 at Monarch Pass claimed the life of CDOT employee David Morris.

David, age 61, joined CDOT in 2011 and was a member of the maintenance crew that serviced Monarch Pass. 

“Dave was a do-er and just a tremendous man,” said David Vialpando, CDOT Maintenance Superintendent, Alamosa.  “Everyone has a story about David; he was that type of coworker and friend.  He touched everyone he knew.”

According to Colorado State Patrol, a semi-truck traveling eastbound on US 50 failed to stop at a signal and crossed into westbound lanes, colliding with the CDOT truck driven by Mr. Morris.  The semi-truck also struck two other vehicles.

“David was on his way to serve the public when this terrible accident happened,” said CDOT Executive Director Shailen Bhatt.  “Everyone who puts on the orange realizes they put themselves at risk when they go on the road.  If not for David’s presence and sacrifice, yesterday’s tragedy may have been even worse.  We are incredibly grateful for his service to CDOT and the residents of Colorado.”

Morris leaves behind a wife, daughter and son.

Since 1929, 58 employees have died in the line of duty.  The last CDOT fatality occurred in 2009.

Contributions in David’s memory may be sent to CDOT’s Helping Hands, a program to assist CDOT families in need.  Checks can be mailed to 4201 East Arkansas Avenue, Denver, CO 80222.