3 University of Wyoming swimmers killed in car crash; 2 injured

Three University of Wyoming students tragically lost their lives on Thursday in a devastating single-car accident in Colorado. The students, who were members of the university's swimming and diving team, were involved in a fatal crash on Highway 287 near the Colorado-Wyoming border.

The incident occurred approximately 10 miles away from the border, near Red Mountain Road in Larimer County, during the afternoon. Riding in a Toyota RAV4, five individuals were traveling south when the vehicle veered off the road, resulting in a rollover accident. Sadly, three students succumbed to their injuries, while the remaining two occupants sustained injuries.

Preliminary reports suggest that the driver lost control, causing the vehicle to swerve off the road and roll multiple times, as stated in a news release by the University of Wyoming.

The university has not disclosed the identities of the deceased students, who included a 22-year-old and a 21-year-old male, as well as an 18-year-old female.

Authorities have clarified that the group was not en route to any official school or athletic event at the time of the accident. The Colorado State Patrol is leading the investigation into the crash, resulting in the closure of both directions of the highway for the majority of the day.

University of Wyoming President Ed Seidel expressed profound sadness over the tragedy, emphasizing the impact on the university, the state, and the broader community. "We are heartsick at the news of this terrible tragedy for our university, our state, our student-athlete community, and, most importantly, the families and friends of these young people. Words are insufficient to express our sadness," said Seidel.

Tom Burman, the university's Director of Athletics, extended his thoughts and prayers to the affected students, coaches, families, and friends, acknowledging the profound loss experienced by the swimming and diving community.

The University of Wyoming has made counseling services available to students and employees in need of support. Students can contact the University Counseling Center at (307) 766-2187 or, during non-weekday work hours, at (307) 766-8989. Employees are encouraged to reach out to the Employee Assistance Program, specifically MINES & Associates, at 800-873-7138.