UPDATE: Several factors contributed to the fatal crash that claimed a woman from Weld County

UPDATE: Colorado State Patrol says a 20-year-old Ault woman who was found dead in a vehicle in rural Weld County was speeding, using her phone, and had marijuana in her system at the time of the crash.

Investigators say Kaylee Russell was driving northbound on Larimer County Road 1 in a Volkswagen Tiguan when she approached a left-hand curve. According to a State Patrol report, Russell was traveling about 60 miles per hour — well above the advised speed of 25 miles per hour for the curve.

Troopers say Russell failed to negotiate the turn, drove off the right side of the road, went over an embankment, struck a utility marker, and rolled into a canal. The vehicle landed on its roof and was partially submerged in water.

Russell was found dead inside the vehicle on December 4^th.

Investigators say toxicology results confirmed marijuana use, and impaired driving is considered a contributing factor in the crash. The report also states that Russell was actively sending text messages at the time of the crash.

Russell was last seen on November 13, 2025. Family and friends organized multiple search efforts in the days following her disappearance before her vehicle was eventually located in the canal.

State Patrol continues to emphasize the dangers of speeding, distracted driving, and impairment, particularly on rural roads where curves and visibility can quickly turn deadly.