CSP: Driver in rollover accident trying to pull stunt

DENVER - The driver of the car involved in a rollover accident in Pinewood Springs Thursday afternoon was trying to do a stunt with the car as it was going around a tight curve, according to the Colorado State Patrol.

Troopers say the 16-year-old driver intentionally pulled the emergency brake in an attempt to "drift" around the curve, going east on US 36. The teen's car rotated counter-clockwise and onto the westbound lanes, overcorrected and rotated clockwise. The vehicle traveled back onto the eastbound lanes and collided and slid along a guardrail. The car then went off the right side of the road rolling 2 1/2 times down a steep embankment in North St. Vrain Canyon and came to rest on its top.

The teen was charged with reckless driving, operating an uninsured motor vehicle, allowing unauthorized passengers, and violating restrictions on a temporary permit. He sustained moderate to serious injuries and was airlifted from the scene to St. Anthony Central in Denver.

The two passengers in the car, also 16 years old, received minor injuries and were taken to Longmont United by ambulance.

When medics arrived on scene, troopers say the teens were climbing out of the canyon. Authorities say the teens probably all lived because they were wearing seat belts.

It was originally reported that four people were in the car instead of three.