Spectator Killed by Hammer Throw at Colorado Youth Track Meet

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — A spectator died Sunday after being struck by an errant hammer during a youth track and field meet at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS) campus. The incident occurred when the hammer, a 16-pound metal ball attached to a chain, cleared certified safety barriers and hit the man, who was attending the event with his family.

Emergency responders pronounced the man dead at the scene. According to KRDO-TV, he had attempted to shield his wife and son from the incoming hammer. The victim was the father of a competitor from the Colorado United Track Club, which hosted the meet for high school athletes from across the state.

“We are heartbroken at this horrible accident and are focused on supporting all involved,” UCCS Chancellor Jennifer Sobanet said in a statement. The university confirmed the hammer throw event was part of a competition organized by the Colorado United Track Club, not UCCS or the Colorado High School Activities Association (CHSAA).

Fatal accidents at track and field events are rare but not unprecedented. In 2017, a hammer throw killed a student at Wheaton College in Illinois, and in 2005, a shot put fatally struck an official during practice at the U.S. track and field championships in Los Angeles.

Witnesses at the Colorado Springs event raised concerns about safety measures. One attendee, who wished to remain anonymous, told 11 News that seating near the hammer throw area seemed dangerously close. “If it was certified, I would believe it would be higher up and there wouldn’t be seating there,” she said. Another parent shared a photo of the setup, questioning the proximity of the bleachers to the throwing area.

The Colorado United Track Club released a statement expressing condolences and outlining support efforts for affected families. “Our Administration, Assistant Superintendent, and D12 Social Workers have been working to determine how to best support both CMHS students as well as the athletes and families of CO United who are affected,” the statement read.

Authorities have not identified the athlete who threw the hammer or released further details about the investigation. The remainder of the meet was canceled, and athletes were sent home following the incident.