The Montezuma County Coroner has identified the two men who lost their lives in the devastating two-vehicle crash on Colorado Highway 184 near Dolores as Perry Lee Coley, 84, of Yellow Jacket, Colorado, and Douglas Heston, 49, of Mansfield, Ohio. The heartbreaking collision occurred Tuesday morning and claimed the lives of two respected Army veterans whose dedication to their families, communities, and country left lasting legacies.
According to Coroner George Deavers, Coley suffered a cardiac event moments before his camouflage Dodge truck crossed the center line and collided head-on with an RV driven by Heston. Although the medical episode likely contributed to the crash, the official cause of death for both men was determined to be multiple blunt force injuries. Authorities do not expect intoxication to have played a role, though toxicology results remain pending.
Perry Lee Coley had recently celebrated his 84th birthday. A proud member of the U.S. Army’s legendary 101st Airborne Division, he later served in law enforcement and remained active with the Montezuma County Sheriff’s Posse after retiring as an electrician. He leaves behind three children, numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and a family who will forever cherish his memory.
Douglas Heston also dedicated his life to military service, retiring from the U.S. Army after more than 25 years. He is survived by his wife, Amber, and their two children, who now mourn the sudden loss of a devoted husband and father.
The tragic crash occurred shortly after a REDDI report was received, and both men were pronounced dead at the scene. Their passing is a solemn reminder of how quickly life can change. As family, friends, and their communities grieve, both Perry Lee Coley and Douglas Heston will be remembered for their service, integrity, and the lasting impact they made on those fortunate enough to know them.
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