A devastating accident occurred at a high school indoor athletics competition, when a spectator was fatally struck by a hammer thrown by an athlete.
The event took place at the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs campus.
According to university officials, the hammer, which is part of the athletics competition, cleared the certified safety barriers and hit the spectator, resulting in his death.
The victim has been identified as 57-year-old Wade Langston, whose death was confirmed by the El Paso County Coroner’s office.
Langston, the father of one of the competitors, was reportedly attempting to shield his wife and son when he was struck.
The hammer, a heavy implement used in track and field events, can weigh up to 7.26 kg (16 lbs).
“We are heartbroken at this horrible accident and are focused on supporting all involved,” said Jennifer Sobanet, Chancellor of the University of Colorado Colorado Springs.
The university has expressed its deep condolences to Langston’s family and all those affected by the incident.
The Colorado Springs Police Department has confirmed the incident but declined to comment further, stating it is being treated as a “non-criminal” matter.
This tragic accident has shaken the local community, as safety protocols at athletic events are typically stringent to prevent such incidents.
Investigations are ongoing as the university and authorities work to understand the circumstances that led to this heartbreaking loss.
