A father who tragically lost his life in a hammer-throwing accident ensured he saved the lives of his family.
On Sunday, January 26, Wade Langston, 57, was attending a track meet at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS).
Langston was there to support his son as he competed when an unthinkable accident happened.
An athlete's hammer throw went beyond the safety net and toward Langston and his family.
Reports indicate that Langston shielded his wife Ronda and 17-year-old son Colin from the 25-pound weight, ultimately sacrificing his own life.
Although the safety barriers in place were described as "cleared certified," concerns have been raised regarding the adequacy of protective measures at the facility.
"This is so unacceptable," said Christopher Burris, a track and field coach in Colorado Springs who trains at the UCCS grounds, in a statement to Mail Online.
"There isn't enough protection, the nets are not high enough, the area itself is too small. It wasn't set up correctly."
Burris further criticized the conditions of the ring and weight-throwing area, calling them "atrocious."
One spectator told the Daily Mail that a similar incident had occurred earlier in the day, as the weights were clearing the low net.
A competitor told the outlet: "They had no EMS or even a first aid kid on sight so people started CPR and lots called 911, they laid the man on the ground and then started CPR, and the paramedics took over 10 minutes to respond."
The Colorado Springs Police Department confirmed to The Independent that the incident is not being treated as a criminal matter.
While UCCS has not directly addressed the concerns raised, Chancellor Jennifer Sobanet expressed her condolences.
"We are heartbroken at this horrible accident and are focused on supporting all involved," she stated.
In response to Langston’s passing, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support his family. As of the time of writing, it has raised over $15,000.
The fundraiser reads: "Wade was a devoted husband, loving father, cherished brother and brother-in-law, fun uncle, and an even more fun great-uncle. He was a truly wonderful person who brought laughter to every room he entered with his great sense of humor.
"He is survived by his wife and their son, who is a senior in high school. This fundraiser will support their son who is attending college in the fall."
The Colorado United Track Club has also started a GoFundMe campaign, raising over $13,000 at the time of writing.
The page reads: "The Colorado United Track Club, our coaches and helpers would like to extend our deepest condolences to the Langston Family as they navigate the tragic loss of Wade Langston. Please know that our hearts, thoughts and prayers are with this family, and they are not alone in their grief.
"To Our Community: If you feel called in your heart, please help to support the Langston Family during this difficult transition with a contribution that will serve them when they need it most. Any amount will assist with expenses to support this family."