2 teens from Illinois die after sledding accident at Colorado ski resort

COPPER MOUNTAIN, Colo. — Two students on a spring break ski trip in Colorado were killed in a sledding accident at a resort, officials say.

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In a news release, the Summit County Sheriff’s Office said Sunday night that just after 8:30 p.m. deputies were called out to a sledding accident at Copper Mountain Ski Resort. When they arrived, they learned that a 17- and 18-year-old, both from Illinois, had been killed.

The teens had reportedly ridden tandem down the halfpipe, according to KUSA. They launched from a snowbank at the bottom of the halfpipe, coming down hard on the ice below.

The sheriff’s office said the teens had blunt force trauma from the falls. They were both given immediate medical attention but were unable to be revived and were declared dead at the scene.

“Our thoughts and condolences go out to the families and friends of the individuals involved in this tragic incident,” said Summit County Sheriff Jaime FitzSimons in the news release.

Both of the bodies have been turned over to the county coroner’s office, according to The Associated Press. The coroner is expected to determine the exact cause of death.

Superintendent of Prairie Central High School in Illinois, Paula Crane, released a statement Monday informing parents about the accident.

“This loss will affect everyone in our school family and in our communities. Students may have a difficult time dealing with the loss, and we encourage you to talk with your child. At this time, the district will not be releasing the names of the students out of respect for the privacy of the families as they grieve through this heartbreaking time. I appreciate your continued support of our students.”

Dustin Lyman, Copper Mountain president and general manager, released a statement following the incident, according to CNN.

“Our most sincere condolences go out to the affected families and friends. We are also thankful to our local emergency responders, for their quick response and the medical assistance provided,” Lyman said.