Athletics spectator killed by hammer throw

A hammer thrown by an athlete at a high school indoor athletics competition in the United States accidentally struck a spectator who was killed.

The University of Colorado Colorado Colorado Springs campus was hosting the event on Sunday.

A student was killed when a hammer thrown at him by a participant “went through certified barriers and struck him,” according to a university spokesperson.

Although first responders attempted to treat Langston, he later died at the scene.

Jennifer Sobanet, the chancellor of the University of Colorado Colorado Springs, said, “We are heartbroken at this horrible accident. We are devoted to supporting everyone involved.”

A spokesperson for the Colorado Springs Police Department did not comment, beyond saying it was a “non-criminal incident”.

Langston’s family released as statement to CBS saying he was a “truly wonderful person”.

“There are no words to express the depth of our sorrow, but we are clinging tightly to the memories, laughter and love that we shared with Wade”, the family said in a statement. We appreciate the support and love shown, but we also request privacy as we go through this heartbreaking loss.