Spectator Killed After Athlete Throws Hammer into Crowd During Track and Field Meet in Colorado

Mar. 15, 2025

A photo of the University of Colorado Colorado Springs sign.Photo:Google Maps

Google Maps

A spectator has died after an athlete’s hammer was thrown out of bounds during a high school track and field meet at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS).

UCCS Chancellor Jennifer Sobanet said of the tragedy, “We are heartbroken at this horrible accident and are focused on supporting all involved,” per the statement.

A photo taken during a hammer throw event.Augustas Cetkauskas/Getty

Augustas Cetkauskas/Getty

“The Colorado Springs Fire Department responded, provided medical care and ultimately pronounced the audience member dead at the scene. Members of the UCCS Police Department and Colorado Springs Police Department were on scene,” the university added.

The rest of the meet has now been canceled, per KRDO 13. It’s not known if it’ll be rescheduled. Colorado Springs Police told the outlet that the man died while trying to protect his wife and son as the object neared the audience.

“The winner of the event is the athlete who throws the hammer the greatest distance while ensuring they stay inside a seven-foot (2.135m) diameter circle,” a description added.

Never miss a story — sign up forPEOPLE’s free daily newsletterto stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer​​, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

source: people.com