The University of Wyoming community is reeling from a devastating tragedy that claimed the lives of three young student-athletes in a fatal car accident near the Wyoming-Colorado border. The victims were identified as freshman Carson Muir, 18, of Birmingham, Alabama; sophomore Charlie Clark, 19, from Las Vegas; and junior Luke Slabber, 21, of Cape Town, South Africa. All three were members of the university’s swimming and diving team and lost their lives at the intersection of Red Mountain Road and U.S. Highway 287, a remote stretch of road between Livermore and Virginia Dale, Colorado.
Preliminary reports from the Colorado State Patrol suggest the Toyota RAV4 they were traveling in veered off the southbound lane and rolled several times. Two passengers were ejected from the vehicle during the crash. Investigators have not yet ruled out contributing factors such as speed, impairment, or distractions. Authorities confirmed that although the victims were members of the university’s athletic program, the group was not traveling on official school business at the time of the incident.
Two other team members were injured but survived the crash. Both were hospitalized with minor injuries and released soon after. One of the survivors was reportedly driving when the crash occurred shortly before 2:45 p.m.
The news sent shockwaves through the campus and the broader Wyoming community. University President Ed Seidel expressed his heartbreak, acknowledging the profound impact the loss has had on students, faculty, and the athletic department. Athletics Director Tom Burman echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that counseling and emotional support are being made available to all who need it.
The Governor of Wyoming, Mark Gordon, and his wife also extended their condolences to the families of the victims, asking everyone to keep those affected close in their thoughts during this unimaginable time.
The tragic loss of Carson, Charlie, and Luke serves as a stark reminder of life’s fragility. These were talented young individuals with promising futures, taken far too soon. Their memory will remain etched in the hearts of teammates, friends, and all who knew them. As the investigation continues and questions remain unanswered, the University of Wyoming and its community are left to grieve, reflect, and stand together in the face of overwhelming sorrow.