Sgt. David Baldwin, 50, was tragically killed in a head-on collision on Highway 93, just north of W. 64th Parkway on Sunday, Jan. 26.

Baldwin was an Air Force veteran and served the sheriff’s office for 27 years. He would have celebrated his 51st birthday next week, Sheriff Mink confirmed. Baldwin is survived by his wife and son.

At 10:05 a.m., Baldwin was traveling in the left northbound lane on his Harley-Davidson patrol motorcycle, entering a sweeping curve. A 2004 Saturn Vue SUV was traveling southbound through the curve when it crossed a double-yellow line, traveling into the northbound lanes and passing at least one vehicle. The Saturn collided head-on with the Harley-Davidson.

After the collision, Baldwin was thrown from the Harley-Davidson. Although he was wearing his helmet and eye protection, he sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

According to investigators, the Saturn’s driver, 83-year-old Kenneth Hosch of Golden, was wearing his seat belt at the time of the crash and sustained minor injuries. He was transported to St. Anthony’s hospital for treatment.

The roadway remained closed for hours Sunday, while the crash was investigated. Colorado State Patrol and the Critical Accident Response Team (CART) continue to investigate the specific circumstances surrounding the collision.

Drug and alcohol use are not suspected as contributing factors in the crash. Charges are pending against Hosch, following the crash scene investigation.

Sheriff Mink reported Baldwin’s wife is grieving but is positive knowing that Baldwin died doing what he loved.

“He was always with a smile, he was always positive and never said anything bad about anybody,” Mink said. “A true professional in how he carried out his duties and I think everybody will remember that for a long time.”

According to the Sheriff’s Department, Baldwin began his law enforcement career with the Sheriff’s Office in 1987. He was promoted to the rank of sergeant in 1996, and worked varying assignments in the Detentions Division, Civil and Fugitive Unit, Bomb Squad, Patrol Division, and most recent assignment to the Traffic/Motorcycle Unit.

Baldwin served as a firearms instructor, driving instructor, and instructor for the Basic and Advanced Law Enforcement Motorcycle School.

On Thursday, Jan. 23, Sheriff Mink met with Sgt. Baldwin in a coffee shop to catch up on work and update one another on their person life. Baldwin told Mink that if the Broncos win the Super Bowl, it would be the greatest birthday gift.