🚨 BREAKING HEARTBREAK: The teen kil-led in that horrific sledding crash has been named… and the “true cause” behind the tragedy is finally out—it’s worse than anyone imagined 😢❄️

16-year-old Elizabeth “Lizzie” Angle, a beloved high school soccer star, was identified as the girl who died after her sled—pulled by a Jeep—slammed into a curb and then a tree at full speed.

Full story:

Authorities and family members have identified the 16-year-old girl who died in a sledding accident in Frisco on January 25, 2026, as Elizabeth “Lizzie” Angle, a sophomore at Wakeland High School and a soccer player. Her best friend, 16-year-old Grace “Gracie” Brito, who was critically injured in the same incident and placed on life support, succumbed to her injuries on January 27, according to family confirmations and local reports.

The accident occurred around 2:30 p.m. in the area of Majestic Gardens Drive and Killian Court during icy conditions following a winter storm. Frisco Police Department officials stated that a 16-year-old boy was driving a Jeep Wrangler towing two 16-year-old girls on a sled. Witnesses reported that the sled struck a curb during a turn before colliding with a tree. First responders found both girls suffering life-threatening injuries and administered aid before transporting them to area hospitals.

Angle was pronounced dead at the hospital despite lifesaving efforts. Brito remained in critical condition on life support for several days before her family announced her passing. No arrests have been made, and the investigation continues with assistance from the Denton County District Attorney’s Office. Police have asked anyone with information to contact them at 972-292-6010.

Angle’s family identified her publicly and shared their grief while emphasizing the need for safety awareness. Her mother described the loss as abrupt and devastating, noting that Angle was surrounded by help until the end. The family expressed hope that their daughter’s death would serve as a reminder of the risks associated with sledding behind motor vehicles, even in residential neighborhoods. They urged parents and young people to prioritize safety, stating that what appears as harmless fun can lead to irreversible tragedy.

Angle was remembered as a well-liked student and athlete. Wakeland High School officials sent a letter to parents describing her as a sophomore soccer player admired by peers and teachers. The school planned to honor her during second period upon resuming classes after weather-related closures, with counseling services available for students and staff. Angle also played for the FC Dallas 2009G club team, and tributes from teammates highlighted her spirit and contributions to the sport.

Brito’s family confirmed her death on January 27, describing the days since the accident as “unimaginably difficult.” They noted reliance on faith, family support, and community outpouring. Brito was portrayed as someone who valued teamwork, friendship, and encouragement, often uplifting those around her.

The incident drew attention to the dangers of vehicle-towed sledding, a practice frequently warned against by medical professionals. Cook Children’s Medical Center in Fort Worth reported treating nearly three dozen children for sledding-related injuries over the weekend, including cases involving broken bones, head trauma, facial injuries, and internal damage—some patients as young as 2 years old. Emergency services medical chief Taylor Louden emphasized that sleds lack braking mechanisms, making control difficult on icy surfaces, especially when towed. Officials recommended helmets, avoidance of motorized towing, steering clear of streets and obstacles, and not using improvised sleds like pool floats.

Doorbell camera footage obtained by media outlets showed the Jeep turning a corner with the sled in tow seconds before the crash, though the impact occurred off-camera. The video underscored the speed and lack of control possible in such setups on slippery roads.

Frisco Police reminded the public that snow and ice create extremely hazardous conditions, where acceleration on slick surfaces can lead to loss of control and severe accidents. The department’s preliminary findings indicated the sled hit the curb before striking the tree, consistent with witness accounts.

The tragedy occurred amid a broader spike in weather-related incidents across regions affected by winter storms. Separate but similar sledding and tubing accidents were reported elsewhere around the same time, including a 17-year-old boy’s death in another state, highlighting seasonal risks during rare southern snow events.

Community response included memorials at the crash site, with flowers, notes, and other tributes placed by friends, classmates, and neighbors. Schools and local organizations offered grief support, and social media posts from families, schools, and athletic groups expressed condolences and shared memories of the girls.

Experts and health officials have used the case to reinforce longstanding safety guidelines. Hospitals and police departments across affected areas issued statements urging caution during winter weather activities. Key recommendations include supervising children closely, using designated sledding hills away from traffic, wearing proper protective gear, and never tethering sleds to vehicles due to the inability to stop quickly or steer effectively.

The Frisco incident is part of a pattern seen in past winter events where impromptu sledding on streets or behind vehicles has led to fatalities and serious injuries. No evidence has emerged suggesting alcohol, drugs, or reckless driving beyond the towing practice contributed, though the full investigation—including review of any available video and witness statements—continues.

For the families of Elizabeth Angle and Grace Brito, the focus remains on mourning and remembrance. Tributes described both girls as vibrant, kind, and integral to their communities. Angle’s soccer teammates remembered her as a defender who guarded her team fiercely, now “standing watch from higher ground.” Brito’s family highlighted her uplifting nature and pride in supporting others.

As Frisco and surrounding areas recover from the storm and reflect on the losses, the case serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly winter recreation can turn tragic. Officials continue to stress education and prevention to avoid similar outcomes in future weather events.