Thursday crash results in serious injury

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COSTILLA COUNTY — On Thursday, December 7, at 6:03 a.m., the Colorado State Patrol responded to a two-vehicle crash on Colorado Highway 160 at mile marker 249, 12 miles east of Alamosa. When troopers arrived at the crash scene, a semi-truck tractor with a gas tanker trailer was fully engulfed in flames.  

Investigation at the scene revealed a 2015 Kenworth semi-tractor was westbound on Colorado Highway 160. A 2016 Ford F150 was eastbound on Colorado Highway 160. The Ford drove into the westbound lane and collided with the front of the semi, according to the Colorado State Patrol. After the collision the Ford went off the south side of the road and came to rest on its wheels facing east. The semi-tractor and trailer traveled off the north side of the road and burst into flames. The driver of the semi was able to escape the vehicle to safety.

Both drivers were transported to San Luis Valley Regional Medical Center.

The driver of the Ford was identified as Brian Inglis, 32, of Monument. He was air lifted to Parkview Hospital in critical condition. The driver of the semi was identified as Scot Felmlee, 49, of Alamosa. He was transported to the San Luis Valley Regional Medical Center with minor injuries.

Alcohol is not believed to be a contributing factor in the crash. Seatbelts were in use by both drivers. Speed is not believed to be a factor. The crash remains under investigation.

Colorado Highway 160 was closed due to the crash and remained closed until approximately 4:50 p.m.

“Once our team evaluated the condition of the highway we determined that we could safely open the travel lanes but there was enough damage to the westbound shoulder to keep it closed until Monday when we can get the equipment and crew to begin repairs,” said David Vialpando, CDOT Region 5 Maintenance Superintendent.

Work to repair the damaged shoulder will begin Monday morning, Dec. 11 and last through Tuesday, Dec. 12. Traffic will be guided through the work zone with a pilot car in order to keep speeds slower through the work zone.

For information on travel conditions visit COTrip.org or call 511.