By Daily Mail (U.S.) | Created at 2025-01-27 05:36:19 | Updated at 2025-01-27 19:10:04
13 hours ago
A Colorado father has been killed during a freak accident at a high school track and field meet in Colorado.
The incident occurred during an indoor hammer throwing event at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs (UCCS), leaving all those present whether trackside or in the stands in disbelief over the unimaginable turn of events.
What began as a day of competition and camaraderie turned into a nightmare at around 9:30am at the Mountain Lion Fieldhouse campus at an indoor facility.
A hammer thrower who was taking part in the Colorado United Track Club meet, released the 25-pound hammer during their turn.
Despite the presence of certified safety barriers, the hammer unexpectedly soared into the stands, fatally striking a spectator, who was later revealed to be the dad of one of the athletes also competing.
Witnesses at the scene described a chaotic and surreal moment as the hammer cleared all protective barriers and struck the man.
Colorado Springs Police later confirmed to KRDO13 that the victim, in an act of selflessness, had been attempting to shield his wife and son from the oncoming hammer when he was hit.
Emergency crews from the Colorado Springs Fire Department were dispatched immediately, but tragically, the man was pronounced dead at the scene.
The accident occurred around 9:30am at an indoor facility at the Mountain Lion Fieldhouse campus at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs
The incident occurred during a hammer throw event at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs (UCCS), leaving all those present in disbelief over the unimaginable turn of events
The victim was identified as the father of a Vista Ridge High School athlete who was part of the Colorado United Track Club.
In a heartfelt statement, UCCS Chancellor Jennifer Sobanet expressed deep sorrow over the incident: 'We are heartbroken at this horrible accident and are focused on supporting all involved.'
The hammer throw, a staple of track and field events, involves swinging a heavy metal ball attached to a wire in a circular motion before hurling it down the field.
While precautions, including certified safety barriers, are in place to protect spectators, Sunday's tragedy underscores the inherent risks of high-velocity sports.
No charges have been filed against the athlete involved in the throw, and their identity has not been released.
A Colorado father has been killed during a freak accident at a high school track and field meet in Colorado when e 25-pound hammer cleared safety barriers and struck a spectator
In the Student Union at Cheyanne Mountain High School the track club, in conjunction with D12, will offer a space for support and connection for those affected
Investigations are ongoing to determine if any additional safety lapses may have contributed to the accident.
On Monday at 4:30pm, the track club will host a support session at Cheyenne Mountain High School's Student Union where social workers from District 12 will be present to help athletes, families, and spectators process the tragedy.
'The entire track and field community is mourning this unimaginable loss,' said a spokesperson for the track club.
'We're committed to ensuring the affected families and athletes receive all the care and support they need.'
