A 16-year-old cheerleader from Texas has died following a sledding accident during an unusual winter storm in the state. This tragedy comes just days after her best friend was also killed.
Grace Brito lost her life on Tuesday after she and Elizabeth Angle, also 16, were pulled on a sled behind a Jeep driven by another teenager at high speeds. Frisco police confirmed the incident on Facebook.
During a sharp turn, the sled hit a curb and crashed into a tree.
Both girls were rushed to the hospital; tragically, Angle was pronounced dead on arrival. Brito sustained serious injuries and had been on life support since the accident.
On Tuesday, Brito’s family confirmed she was taken off life support. Their grief was palpable, as reported by KTVT.
Tracy Brito, Grace’s mother, shared, “We’re a family of four: me, my husband, Grace, and Emma.” Emma is currently a freshman at Louisiana State University.
The family is heartbroken over the loss of their “beautiful daughter Gracie,” who, according to her mother, had a generous, loving heart.
Tracy mentioned that Grace and Angle were inseparable, having been best friends for years. Angle had been a sophomore at Wakeland High School, actively playing junior varsity soccer and competing with FC Dallas’ 2009 G club team.
Grace was not just a cheerleader but an accomplished athlete with Express Dance & Cheer. “Cheer was her biggest passion,” Tracy noted, emphasizing Grace’s dedication and joy for the sport.
Express Dance & Cheer issued an emotional statement, recognizing Grace as a leader within their community. They plan to honor her memory in every possible way, promising that her warmth and optimism will not be forgotten.
A neighbor, Mark Fisher, observed the moments leading to the crash and described the Jeep speeding away as the girls screamed before they disappeared around a corner. “When you go that fast on ice, the sled doesn’t stop,” he said.
Currently, it’s unclear if the 16-year-old driver will face any charges. The Frisco police are still investigating the accident, emphasizing that alcohol was not involved.
In their report, they urged caution against spreading unverified information, which can add to the distress experienced by those in mourning.
