Is this true or fake news: Heartbreaking Incident Shakes University of Wyoming Community
On the afternoon of Thursday, February 22, 2024, the University of Wyoming community was deeply shaken when three student-athletes from the school’s swimming and diving program died in a rollover accident on a rural stretch of U.S. Highway 287 near the Colorado–Wyoming border. The crash occurred shortly before 2:45 p.m., near Red Mountain Road, an area known for challenging driving conditions, sudden weather changes, and a history of serious accidents.
The university later confirmed the identities of the deceased. Charlie Clark, 19, from Las Vegas, was a sophomore psychology major and dedicated member of the men’s swim team. Coaches remembered Charlie as a natural leader who inspired teammates through determination and humility. Luke Slabber, 21, from Cape Town, South Africa, was a junior studying construction management and a rising star on the men’s roster. Luke was praised for his international outlook, commitment to the sport, and a sense of humor that lifted team spirits. Carson Muir, 18, from Birmingham, Alabama, was a freshman on the women’s team pursuing a degree in animal and veterinary sciences. Teammates highlighted her kindness, precision, and warmth, which positively influenced team dynamics. Coaches, peers, and teammates described all three as hardworking, positive, and fully committed to both academics and athletics. “These students truly embodied the spirit of our program,” one coach said. “They will be deeply missed on campus and in the pool.”
According to the Colorado State Patrol, the five student-athletes were traveling together in a Toyota RAV4 when the SUV veered off the road. Investigators believe the driver may have swerved to avoid another vehicle, causing the car to lose stability and roll down a slight embankment. Three students—Charlie, Luke, and Carson—were pronounced dead at the scene. Two other male students survived with non-life-threatening injuries and were released from the hospital shortly after. One of the survivors was confirmed as the driver. Officials emphasized that this was not a university-sanctioned trip. Investigations are ongoing to determine contributing factors, including road conditions, vehicle mechanics, and environmental issues such as visibility and weather.
The university responded immediately with grief support and counseling services. President Ed Seidel expressed sorrow for the loss, stating that the tragedy had profoundly impacted the university, the state, and the athletic community. Athletics Director Tom Burman echoed these sentiments, noting the devastating loss to both the swimming and diving program and the wider campus. Counseling resources were expanded, with team-focused sessions and peer support activated to help students and staff process the emotional impact.
Local residents, alumni, and state officials expressed condolences. Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon and First Lady Jennie Gordon highlighted the importance of community support during this difficult time. Tributes and memorials, including online messages and candlelight vigils in Laramie, began almost immediately.
The crash has renewed focus on the safety of U.S. Highway 287. Experts have long cited the two-lane road, blind curves, variable weather, and wildlife crossings as factors contributing to its accident rate. Calls for better signage, wider shoulders, and improved guardrails have increased, along with discussions about driver awareness campaigns to prevent future incidents.
To honor the memory of the three student-athletes, the University of Wyoming scheduled a public “Celebration of Life” ceremony on March 6, 2024, at the Arena-Auditorium. The event included remarks from university leadership, the Governor of Wyoming, athletic coaches, teammates, and community members who knew the athletes personally. Students, staff, and community members were encouraged to participate in local vigils, donate to scholarships in the athletes’ memory, or contribute to mental-health initiatives. An online remembrance page was also launched where friends, teammates, and alumni could share stories, photos, and messages honoring Charlie, Luke, and Carson.
Friends and teammates remember the three student-athletes not only for their skill and dedication in the pool but for their character, leadership, and kindness. Charlie Clark was remembered as a thoughtful mentor who supported his peers academically and personally. Luke Slabber’s international perspective and humor brought joy and motivation to everyone around him. Carson Muir was recognized for her gentle demeanor, determination, and commitment to both her sport and studies in animal and veterinary sciences. While their lives were cut short, the impact they made on their teammates, coaches, and the University of Wyoming community will not be forgotten. The university emphasized that their stories, achievements, and contributions will continue to be celebrated, even as students, staff, and families grieve their sudden loss.
As the University of Wyoming and the broader community confront this tragedy, the focus remains on healing, remembrance, and safety. Students and staff are encouraged to utilize counseling resources, check in on one another, and support the teammates who survived while honoring the memory of the three lives lost. The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the fragility of life, the need for roadway safety, and the importance of community support during moments of profound loss. “We will carry Charlie, Luke, and Carson in our hearts forever,” said President Seidel. “Their legacy will live on through their friends, teammates, families, and everyone they touched at the University of Wyoming.”