Manuel Alejandro Lorenzana Villegas Death News – Colorado authorities have identified the man who died in a traffic crash in Clear Creek County while transporting a girls youth hockey team from California to a tournament. The incident has deeply affected families, teammates, and the broader youth sports community.
The Clear Creek County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as 38-year-old Manuel Alejandro Lorenzana Villegas. Officials said he was driving a passenger van carrying members of the Santa Clarita Lady Flyers when the crash occurred. The team is made up of girls aged 12 and under.
According to authorities, the van was carrying a total of 10 people at the time of the collision. The vehicle was involved in a crash with a Colorado Department of Transportation snow plow. Emergency crews responded quickly to the scene to provide assistance to those involved.
Seven people, including four children and three adults, were transported to a nearby hospital for evaluation and treatment. Medical officials later confirmed that all four children were released from care. Two adults remained hospitalized in serious condition, while another adult was reported to be in fair condition as of Thursday.
Villegas was the father of one of the players on the Santa Clarita Lady Flyers, according to team president Prescott Littlefield. Members of the team and their families described him as a dedicated parent who was helping ensure the girls could attend their scheduled tournament.
Despite the tragedy, the team chose to continue participating in the tournament as a way to support one another. In a message shared publicly, the team said the players decided to show resilience and unity by continuing to play. Team officials noted that while the group would have a shorter lineup, every moment on the ice would carry special meaning.
“Our girls have chosen to support one another by continuing to compete this weekend,” the team shared. “Each shift, goal, and save represents their strength and togetherness during a difficult time.”
Local leaders also shared their condolences. Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger, who represents the Santa Clarita area, released a statement expressing sorrow over the incident. She acknowledged the loss and the serious injuries suffered by those involved, noting the impact on the youth sports community and the families affected.
Clear Creek County officials said the crash remains under investigation. Authorities indicated that the collision involved a snow plow that lost control before coming into contact with the van. Investigators are continuing to review the circumstances to determine what led to the incident.
Officials extended their sympathies to the Villegas family, the injured individuals, and the Santa Clarita Lady Flyers organization. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available through official channels.