Custer County EMS paramedic killed in crash near Westcliffe

(CUSTER COUNTY, Colo.) — The Custer County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) announced on Sunday, Oct. 20, that one of their paramedics lost his life in a fatal crash on his way to work on Saturday, Oct. 19.

The Custer County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) reported that when emergency responders arrived at the scene of a two-vehicle crash just north of Westcliffe, they found that Andrew Fernandez had been killed instantly. The driver of the other vehicle, a man from Westcliffe was also seriously injured. The crash is being investigated by the Colorado State Patrol.

According to Custer County EMS, Fernandez was “a top-notch paramedic and an even better human being. Andrew was a clever, intelligent, and warm person. He was highly respected at Custer County EMS for his diligent patient care and willingness to serve.”

Custer County EMS said that Fernandez had been a paramedic for over ten years and had remained the kind of provider who was willing to learn, grow, and take on new challenges. He leaves behind a wife, Justine, and a two-year-old daughter, Journey.

To learn more about Fernandez and ways to help support his family, click the link above to the Custer County EMS Facebook page.

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