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A tragic accident occurred Sunday morning at a high school track and field meet in Colorado, where 57-year-old Wade Langston was fatally struck by a hammer weight thrown by a competitor. The incident took place at the University of Colorado-Colorado Springs (UCCS) campus during a meet for high school athletes.

 

The hammer, a weighted object attached to a grip, was thrown during the competition but accidentally cleared safety barriers and hit Langston, who was in the audience. Despite medical efforts from police and the Colorado Springs Fire Department, Langston was pronounced dead at the scene.

 

Langston, described as a devoted husband and loving father, was attending the event to support his son, a high school senior and athlete with the Colorado United Track Club. Erik Huffman, the club’s head coach, started a fundraising campaign to support Langston’s family. A separate campaign organized by Langston’s niece-in-law, Tamara Rocha, aims to assist with college tuition for Langston’s son.

 

In a statement, UCCS Chancellor Jennifer Sobanet expressed deep sorrow, saying, “We are heartbroken at this horrible accident and are focused on supporting all involved.” The event was part of a three-meet series hosted at the UCCS campus, which began in December.

 

The incident has left the local community in mourning, with heartfelt condolences pouring in for Langston’s family and loved ones.