The Frisco community is grieving the tragic loss of 16-year-old Elizabeth Angle, who died following a sledding accident on Sunday. She was a sophomore at Wakeland High School and an active player on both her school’s soccer team and an FC Dallas club team.
The incident occurred in a Frisco neighborhood near Legacy Drive and Main Street. A 16-year-old male was driving a Jeep while towing two female teens on a sled, which struck a curb and collided with a tree. Both girls were critically injured and taken to the hospital, where Elizabeth Angle succumbed to her injuries.
Elizabeth’s mother described her daughter as “a bright light, a fun spirit, a brave soul” on social media. She shared that Elizabeth had just earned her driver’s license and was out enjoying a rare snow day with friends. “We will never be the same,” her mother expressed, reflecting the deep family sorrow.
Neighbors and classmates watched the emergency responders arrive at the scene, shaken by the sudden tragedy. Nathaniel Lisotta, a Wakeland freshman, recalled how the fun quickly turned serious. “Thirty seconds before, they were probably laughing and screaming,” he said. “Thirty minutes after, ambulances and police cars were there.”
Wakeland High School Principal Donna Edge said the whole campus is affected by the loss. She noted Elizabeth’s popularity among peers and teachers and her positive contributions to school spirit. The school plans to honor Elizabeth during second period when classes resume and will provide support for grieving students and staff.
Elizabeth’s FC Dallas coach, Luis Ramos, remembered her as strong and resilient, with a calm demeanor. The soccer team requested thoughts and prayers for Elizabeth’s family, friends, teammates, and the larger community during this difficult time.
The other injured 16-year-old girl remains in critical condition on life support. She is reportedly Elizabeth’s best friend, intensifying the heartbreak felt by those close to her. Meanwhile, Frisco police continue investigating the accident, with Denton County District Attorney’s Office reviewing whether charges are warranted.
Cook Children’s Medical Center in Fort Worth has seen a surge in sledding-related injuries during the snowy weather, with 35 children treated over the weekend. Injuries ranged from broken bones to severe head trauma, underscoring the dangers of ice sledding. Dr. Taylor Louden, medical director of emergency services, emphasized the risks of sledding on ice, which can cause catastrophic injuries.
Medical experts advise several safety measures for sledding:
1. Always wear a helmet to protect against head injuries.
2. Avoid being pulled behind motorized vehicles to prevent uncontrolled accidents.
3. Use proper sleds rather than unstable or inappropriate equipment.
4. Stay off public streets and avoid sledding near hazardous objects.
These precautions are critical given the icy conditions observed in Texas, which differ significantly from traditional snow sledding. Authorities stress the need for vigilance to prevent further accidents during winter weather.
The Frisco community’s mourning continues as friends, family, and neighbors remember Elizabeth’s vibrant spirit and hope for recovery for the surviving victim. The investigation progresses while local institutions offer support and remembrance to those impacted by this devastating sledding tragedy.
