Three members of the University of Wyoming swimming and diving team died in a single-vehicle crash on U.S. Highway 287 about 10 miles south of the Wyoming-Colorado border Thursday afternoon. The university is not releasing their names until next of kin are notified.

Two other members of the men’s swimming and diving team were injured in the crash. Their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

The crash happened between Livermore and Virginia Dale, Colo., at the intersection of Highway 287 and Red Mountain Road, according to reports from the Colorado State Patrol. The accident is under investigation but initial indications are that the driver swerved and the vehicle went off the road, rolling multiple times.

Governor Mark Gordon has issued the following statement after learning of a single-vehicle car accident that claimed the lives of three members of the University of Wyoming swim team on Thursday on U.S. 287 in northern Colorado.

“I am heartbroken to learn of the tragic deaths of three University of Wyoming student athletes in a motor vehicle accident on US 287 in Colorado. Jennie and I join the entire university community and all of Wyoming in mourning this loss, and we ask you to keep their families, friends and loved ones close to your hearts during this difficult time.”

UW President Ed Seidel said, “We are heartsick at the news of this terrible tragedy for our university, our state, our student-athlete community and, most importantly, the families and friends of these young people. Words are insufficient to express our sadness.”

Other UW students in need of support are encouraged to contact the University Counseling Center at 307.766.2187. The Counseling Center is open MF, 8 am to 5 pm, and is prepared to support students. Students can also call an after-hours crisis counselor at 307.766.8989. 

The Dean of Students Office, 307.766.3296 is available for any well-being support or academic assistance students may need.

UW employees may seek assistance through the Employee Assistance Program when you call toll-free 1-800-873.7138.

University of Wyoming Athletics is making counseling resources available for its student-athletes and staff through:

• Interim Director of Student-Athlete Well-Being, Rachel Amity, and

• Assistant Director of Student-Athlete Well-Being, Tedder Easton.