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After-hours fun ends in tragedy at Calgary bobsleigh track


Leeanna McLean
Digital Reporter

Sunday, February 7, 2016, 12:21 PM - The two teenagers who were killed in a crash on a bobsled luge track Saturday have been identified as twin brothers.

Evan and Jordan Caldwell, 17, died while using a personal toboggan after-hours on the track at Calgary's Canada Olympic Park. Six other teenage males were injured, and the Caldwells were declared dead at the scene.

"Our boys Jordan & Evan were bright lights to all who knew them. We are grieving their loss but confident in their new home of heaven. Our brief 17 years with them were a gift: filled with much love, laughter, and fond memories," a statement from the family reads.

Emergency crews responded to a call around 1:30 a.m. at WinSport athletics facility, which was closed at the time.

Officials say the teens crashed into a gate midway down the track and the impact is what most likely caused the injuries and fatalities.

Emergency crews struggled with low lighting and slippery conditions but were able to assist those injured.

"They're severely traumatized themselves, never mind the injuries," Calgary Police Sgt. Paul Wyatt told CBC.

Police are now looking for two teens who may have fled the scene. WinSport Canada provided the police with security footage to help with the investigation.

"We believe there may have been two other people involved and we really need them to come forward," Sgt. Wyatt added. "If they're out there and they made it down the hill or they've subsequently gone home, we want to get in touch with them."

Two vehicles were also found at the scene which are believed to be connected to the group.

WinSport issued a statement Saturday regarding the incident.

"On behalf of WinSport, I would like to express our sincerest sympathies to the families of the two deceased. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families," Barry Heck, WinSport President and CEO said in the statement. "WinSport is working closely with the Calgary Police Service in their ongoing investigation. In addition, WinSport will conduct its own review of the incident."

Lessons and programs on the hill will continue as scheduled, though the half pipe and West Terrain park remains closed.

With files from Daniel Martins

SOURCE: City of CalgaryCBC

Watch more: Luging down frozen Atlanta streets

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