The University of Wyoming community is in mourning following a tragic motor vehicle accident that claimed the lives of three members of the university’s men’s swimming and diving team. The accident occurred near the Wyoming-Colorado border, leaving families, students, faculty, and the wider collegiate athletics world devastated.
According to an official statement by the Colorado State Patrol and the University of Wyoming, the incident involved a single-vehicle crash that occurred near the intersection of Red Mountain Road and U.S. Highway 287, between Livermore and Virginia Dale in Colorado. The crash, which took place shortly before 2:45 p.m. on a Thursday, is currently under investigation by state authorities.
Victims Identified: Young Lives Lost Too Soon
The University of Wyoming confirmed the names and identities of the three students who tragically lost their lives:
- Carson Muir, 18, a freshman from Birmingham, Alabama
- Charlie Clark, 19, a sophomore from Las Vegas, Nevada
- Luke Slabber, 21, a junior from Cape Town, South Africa
All three were promising student-athletes who had represented the university with dedication and pride as members of the men’s swimming and diving team. Their sudden loss has sent shockwaves through the tight-knit athletic and academic community in Laramie, Wyoming.
Source: University of Wyoming Official News Release
https://www.uwyo.edu
Details of the Incident: What Authorities Know So Far
According to the Colorado State Patrol, the vehicle involved—a Toyota RAV4 carrying five individuals—was traveling southbound when it veered off the road and rolled multiple times. The accident resulted in the ejection of two passengers. Tragically, three occupants of the vehicle were pronounced deceased at the scene.
Two other team members survived the crash with non-life-threatening injuries and were promptly transported to a local hospital. They have since been released. Investigators have stated that the driver of the vehicle was one of the survivors. Although early reports did not specify whether speed, impairment, or distraction were involved, authorities have confirmed that all potential factors are still being considered.
Source: Colorado State Patrol Statement to Media
https://www.codot.gov
Importantly, the university confirmed that the group was not traveling for official school business or a sanctioned athletic event at the time of the crash.
Community and University Leaders Respond
The tragic accident prompted heartfelt responses from leaders at the university and across the state.
Ed Seidel, President of the University of Wyoming, released an emotional statement expressing the collective grief of the university. “There are no words that can adequately convey the sorrow we feel for the loss of these young men. They were cherished members of our university family,” he stated.
Tom Burman, University of Wyoming Athletics Director, emphasized the profound impact of the loss, noting the close-knit nature of student-athletes. “This is an incredibly painful moment for our athletics department. We grieve the loss deeply and are committed to providing support and counseling services for our students, coaches, and staff,” he said.
Source: University of Wyoming President and Athletics Department Statements
https://gowyo.com
Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon and First Lady Jennie Gordon also extended their condolences. In an official message, the Governor stated: “Jennie and I are heartbroken to hear of this tragic loss. We hold the families and friends of these young men in our thoughts and prayers and encourage the entire community to support one another during this difficult time.”
Source: Wyoming Governor’s Office Public Statement
https://governor.wyo.gov
Mourning and Support Services in Place
The University of Wyoming has activated its campus mental health and counseling services to assist students, staff, and faculty impacted by the tragedy. Counselors and support teams are working closely with the athletic department to offer resources for grief and trauma recovery.
Additionally, the university has created space for reflection and remembrance on campus. A memorial is being organized in honor of the students, and plans are underway to establish a tribute during an upcoming swim meet to celebrate their lives and contributions.
University officials are urging students to take advantage of available resources and to support one another during this period of mourning.
Source: UW Counseling Services Announcement
https://www.uwyo.edu/ucc
Remembering the Students
Each of the three students had begun to build remarkable futures both academically and athletically:
- Carson Muir was known for his enthusiasm and team spirit. Coaches described him as a rising talent with an infectious energy that brought positivity to every practice session.
- Charlie Clark had already made significant strides as a swimmer, earning recognition for his commitment and work ethic. His teammates described him as loyal, thoughtful, and driven.
- Luke Slabber, originally from South Africa, had become a mentor figure for younger teammates and was admired for his leadership both in and out of the pool.
Their absence will be deeply felt by teammates, coaches, and the broader University of Wyoming community.
A Community United in Grief
This tragedy has served as a painful reminder of how fragile life can be. The loss of three young lives filled with promise has united the University of Wyoming community and beyond. Students and faculty have been seen gathering for moments of silence, sharing stories, and expressing support to one another.
Tributes have also poured in from across the nation, including from other NCAA swimming and diving programs, showing solidarity and compassion.
Final Thoughts: Honoring Lives Lost
While the accident investigation continues, the focus remains on honoring the memory of Carson Muir, Charlie Clark, and Luke Slabber. Their contributions to their team, their university, and their peers will not be forgotten.
The university, alongside the state and the wider athletic community, is offering support and remembrance during this time of sorrow. As the University of Wyoming continues to heal, these young men will be remembered for the joy, commitment, and strength they brought into the lives of those around them.
Verified Sources:
- University of Wyoming News Release
https://www.uwyo.edu/news - Colorado State Patrol Public Safety Reports
https://www.codot.gov - University of Wyoming Athletics
https://gowyo.com - Wyoming Governor’s Office
https://governor.wyo.gov - UW Counseling and Support Services
https://www.uwyo.edu/ucc
