A driver going the wrong way at extreme speeds on Highway 285 near milepost 249 crashed into their Cadillac, killing both and injuring the driver of another vehicle that was hit when the couple's car spun around. That driver, 33-year-old Michael Colson, was arrested on August 11; he had been hospitalized while the Colorado State Patrol conducted its investigation.
Michael Carman was pronounced dead at the hospital soon after his arrival on July 21. Debbie Carman was admitted to the ICU in critical condition, and died two days later with their son, Austin, by her side.
Michael Colson has been arrested and charged with the deaths of Michael and Debbie Carman in an auto accident on July 21.
Colorado State Patrol
Many knew the Abide Ride Burrito Truck, "as it is a frequent stop for many Conifer, Pine and Bailey residents on their early morning commute to Denver," notes a GoFundMe launched by Sam Norman, a family friend, So far, the GoFundMe has raised almost $35,000, with a goal of $50,000 to cover the expenses of the funerals and hospital costs. According to Norman, any additional funds will go towards paying off any debts related to the food truck so that Austin can continue to operate it.
The generous response to the GoFundMe surprised the family, Norman says. "It's raised far more than we thought," he says. "I mean, I think I made it originally for not even $10,000 — I think I made it for $5,000. I wasn't sure, really, if anybody cares that much. And then, you know, after I talked to the family, they were like, 'Hey, let's make it for ten, because these costs are starting to add up."
Norman and the couple's family members were notified by the CSP after Colson was arrested. "I don't know if I really have anything to add to the story about it, except it's just the beginning," he says, "and hopefully the DA will show that this kind of behavior isn't going to be accepted."
The GoFundMe is at gofundme.com/f/austin-needs-us-tragic-loss-of-family.
