Father killed, players injured in Colorado crash involving Santa Clarita girls hockey team

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A father was killed and several young athletes were injured Thursday when a van carrying the Santa Clarita Lady Flyers girls hockey team was struck by a snowplow and sent down an embankment in Clear Creek County, Colorado, just west of Denver. The incident happened as the team was on their way to a tournament.

Why it matters

This tragic accident involving a youth sports team highlights the dangers of winter driving conditions and the need for heightened safety precautions when transporting young athletes to competitions. The loss of a parent is devastating, and the injuries to the players will likely have lasting impacts on the team and community.

The details

According to authorities, a snowplow belonging to the Colorado Department of Transportation lost control and hit the Sprinter van carrying the Santa Clarita Lady Flyers, pushing it off the roadway. The driver, identified only as the father of one of the players, was killed in the crash. One girl was airlifted to a trauma center, and four other players were taken to a hospital by ambulance, though their conditions have not been released.

• The incident happened on Thursday morning.

What’s next

Colorado State Patrol is investigating the cause of the crash and the conditions of the injured players.