University of Wyoming Swimmers Killed in Tragic Car Crash Near Colorado Border

A heartbreaking accident claimed the lives of three University of Wyoming swimming and diving team members on Thursday, Sept. 26, near the Wyoming-Colorado border.

The victims were identified as Charlie Clark, 19, of Las Vegas, Luke Slabber, 21, of Cape Town, South Africa, and Carson Muir, 18, of Birmingham, Alabama. The crash occurred on U.S. Highway 287 near Red Mountain Road, between Livermore and Virginia Dale, Colorado.

According to the Colorado State Patrol, the Toyota RAV4 carrying five team members veered off the southbound lane and rolled several times, ejecting two passengers. Early investigations suggest speed, impairment, or distractions have not been ruled out.

Two other athletes survived with non-life-threatening injuries and were later discharged. One of them, reportedly the driver, was behind the wheel when the vehicle crashed around 2:45 p.m.

University President Ed Seidel and Athletics Director Tom Burman expressed profound grief, offering counseling to student-athletes. Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon also shared condolences, urging support for the families and community.

This tragedy has left the university and state mourning the loss of three promising young lives.