Colorado politician Joe Anderson, 45, died Friday after collapsing while hiking Quandary Peak. Hikers found Anderson struggling to breathe on the mountain's lower slopes before he lost consciousness. First responders arrived around 6:40 a.m. and took over CPR efforts, but Anderson was pronounced dead at the scene. The coroner will determine the official cause of death.
Quandary Peak, located in Summit County, is one of Colorado's highest mountains, rising 14,272 feet above sea level. Anderson had served on the Englewood City Council since 2019 and became mayor pro tem in December 2023. He was reelected in 2024 for a term that was set to run through November 2027.
Englewood Mayor Othoniel Sierra expressed shock and sadness over Anderson's passing, describing him as a friend and council member who was always willing to help. Sierra noted Anderson's significant contributions to the city, including his role in rebuilding infrastructure after 2018 flooding and co-founding the nonprofit Change the Trend, which addresses homelessness.
Former City Manager Shawn Lewis remembered Anderson for his ability to inspire and challenge colleagues while providing support. Lewis described Anderson as a rare combination of an encourager and a motivator, calling him one of the most effective and positive council members he had worked with. Lewis also recalled Anderson's personal kindness during a difficult time for his family.