Frisco, Texas – A second 16-year-old girl has died after a sled being pulled by a Jeep crashed into a tree during a winter weather incident in a Frisco neighborhood, turning a recreational outing into a devastating tragedy. Police confirmed that the two teenagers involved were best friends and suffered fatal injuries despite emergency lifesaving efforts.
Incident Overview
The Frisco Police Department confirmed on Wednesday that 16-year-old Grace Brito died at the hospital from injuries sustained in the crash. Her death follows the earlier loss of her best friend, 16-year-old Elizabeth “Lizzie” Angle, who was pronounced dead after the same incident.
According to authorities, the crash occurred while the teens were sledding in icy conditions, with the sled being pulled by a vehicle through a residential area.
Timeline of Events
The fatal incident happened on Sunday afternoon, as winter weather created slick and hazardous conditions across parts of North Texas. Police said a 16-year-old boy was driving a Jeep Wrangler that was towing a sled carrying Grace Brito and Elizabeth Angle.
Witnesses told investigators that the sled struck a curb before colliding forcefully with a tree. Officers responding to the scene found both girls suffering from life-threatening injuries and immediately began lifesaving measures before transporting them to a nearby hospital.
Despite medical intervention, both teenagers later died from their injuries.
Details From Police and Officials
In a statement shared publicly, Frisco police emphasized that alcohol was not a factor in the crash and addressed online speculation surrounding the incident.
“We also want to clarify rumors circulating online, throughout this entire investigation, there has been no indication of alcohol involvement by any of the involved parties,” police said.
“Please be mindful of sharing unverified information, as it can add unnecessary pain to those grieving.”
Authorities have not announced whether criminal charges will be filed against the teenage driver. The case remains under active investigation in coordination with the Denton County District Attorney’s Office, according to police.
Witness Accounts
A neighborhood resident, Mark Fischer, told local media that he saw the teens shortly before the crash and noticed the Jeep accelerating rapidly on icy streets, according to a report.
“The Jeep got accelerated really quickly, and the girls started screaming. I don’t know if it was from having fun or what,” Fischer said.
“Then, I lost sight of them as they kind of came around the corner, and that was the last I heard.”
Fischer added that the icy road conditions made the situation especially dangerous.
“From what I saw, the acceleration, especially when it’s ice like this… to be going that fast, a sled can’t stop.”
Family and Community Impact
Grace Brito’s mother, Tracy Brito, described the bond between the two girls as inseparable, highlighting the deep personal loss felt by both families and the broader community. Friends, neighbors, and classmates have begun sharing tributes online as Frisco residents grapple with the shock of losing two teenagers in a single incident.
The deaths have sparked renewed conversations about winter safety and the risks associated with vehicle-towed recreational activities.
Winter Weather Safety Concerns
Police used the tragedy to remind residents of the dangers posed by snow and ice, particularly when combined with vehicles.
“This tragedy serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by winter weather conditions,” police said.
“Snow and ice can create extremely slippery surfaces and lead to serious or even deadly accidents.”
Authorities urged residents to remain indoors when possible, avoid unnecessary outdoor activities, and refrain from using vehicles to tow sleds or other recreational equipment on public roads.
Conclusion
The deaths of Grace Brito and Elizabeth Angle underscore how quickly winter fun can turn fatal when icy conditions and vehicles mix. As investigators continue to review the circumstances of the crash, Frisco officials are urging the public to prioritize safety and caution during severe weather.
Community members are encouraged to reflect on winter safety practices and the responsibility of protecting young lives during hazardous conditions. Share your experiences in the comments below.
