On Sunday morning at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs, Wade Langston was pronounced dead after being hit by a weight throw.
The meet was hosted by Colorado United Track Club at the UCCS indoor track facility. UCCS told a local news station, KKTV Colorado Springs, that a weight throw cleared the certified barriers and struck a man. The Colorado Springs Fire Department responded but ultimately pronounced the spectator dead at the scene. UCCS officials were devastated after hearing the news.
"We are heartbroken at this horrible accident and are focused on supporting all involved," said UCCS Chancellor Jenifer Sobanet to KKTV.
On Monday, the El Paso County Corner identified the man as Wade Langston, 57. Langston's family provided the following statement to news sources:
"Wade was a devoted husband, loving father, cherished brother and brother-in-law, fun uncle, and an even more fun great-uncle. He was a truly wonderful person who brought laughter to every room he entered with his great sense of humor. There are no words to express the depth of our sorrow, but we are clinging tightly to the memories, laughter and love that we shared with Wade. We appreciate the outpouring of love and support but ask for privacy as we process this profound grief. Our thoughts and prayers are with all others impacted by this tragedy." - Family of Wade Langston
The family started a GoFundMe to support their son, who is attending college this fall.
Colorado United Track Club also started a GoFundMe to help the Langston family with this difficult transition.
**Correction: Colorado United Track Club served as the meet director of the UCCS United High School Meet Series and not the host. UCCS served as the host of the track meet series.