“When a Winter Afternoon Turned to Tragedy”

A quiet neighborhood in Frisco, Texas has been left reeling after a devastating sledding accident took the lives of two teenage girls within days of one another. What began as a winter afternoon of laughter and excitement ended in heartbreak, leaving families, friends, and an entire community mourning the loss of Elizabeth Angle and Grace “Gracie” Brito — two best friends whose lives were filled with promise, warmth, and joy.

The tragedy unfolded on Sunday, January 25, when Frisco police received an emergency call shortly after 2:26 p.m. reporting that several juveniles had been seriously injured during a sledding activity. When first responders arrived, they quickly realized the situation was far more severe than initially believed.

Investigators later determined that the two 16-year-olds had been riding on a sled tied to the back of a Jeep Wrangler being driven by another teenager. As the vehicle picked up speed, the sled lost control, slammed into a curb, and then struck a tree with tremendous force. Rescue crews rushed to help, but the damage was catastrophic.

Elizabeth Angle, a sophomore at Wakeland High School, was pronounced dead at the scene. Her close friend Gracie Brito was critically injured and placed on life support. Despite doctors’ efforts, Gracie passed away two days later on Tuesday, January 27, plunging two families — and an entire city — into grief.

Gracie’s mother, Tracy Brito, released a deeply emotional statement honoring her daughter’s life and spirit. She described Gracie as compassionate, creative, and full of love — a young woman who brought warmth and light to everyone she met. Gracie had recently earned her driver’s license and had even registered as an organ donor, a final reflection of her selfless nature.

Cheerleading was her greatest passion. As an All-Star cheerleader with Express Dance & Cheer in Frisco, Gracie was known for her leadership and her ability to lift others up. The organization remembered her as a shining presence whose optimism and kindness left a lasting mark.

Elizabeth was equally admired. A talented soccer player for the FC Dallas 2009G team, she was known for her dedication, teamwork, and drive. Off the field, she was a strong student and a loving daughter who had just earned her driver’s license and was excited to enjoy a snowy weekend with friends.

The bond between Elizabeth and Gracie was inseparable. Their families often spoke of them as lifelong companions who were always together. Elizabeth’s mother, Megan Angle, shared heartfelt photos of the girls, writing that there was some comfort in knowing they were now together forever. Witnesses at the scene recalled that the two girls were holding onto each other when the sled crashed.

A nearby resident, Mark Fischer, described how the Jeep accelerated rapidly before disappearing around a corner. He recalled hearing the girls screaming moments before the collision, explaining that the icy conditions made it impossible for the sled to slow down or turn.

Authorities confirmed that alcohol was not involved and stressed that the investigation remains ongoing. Police also urged the public to avoid spreading speculation, reminding everyone that rumors only add to the pain of grieving families.

In the aftermath, the Angle family created the Elizabeth Angle Foundation, a scholarship fund designed to help children pursue their dreams — a tribute to Elizabeth’s generous heart and bright future. A GoFundMe for the foundation has already raised nearly $65,000, showing the depth of community support.

A separate fundraiser for the Brito family has also grown rapidly, bringing in over $12,000 in its first day. Gracie is remembered there as a radiant, selfless presence whose loss has left a profound void.

Across Frisco, schools, friends, and neighbors have gathered for vigils, memorials, and moments of reflection. Counselors have been brought in to help students process the trauma, while social media has filled with photos and messages honoring the girls’ lives.

Coaches, teammates, and teachers have shared stories of Elizabeth’s dedication and Gracie’s uplifting spirit — reminders that their influence extended far beyond their years.

The accident has also renewed conversations about winter safety. While sledding is often seen as harmless fun, experts warn that towing sleds behind vehicles — especially on icy roads — is extremely dangerous. Officials urge families to keep winter activities confined to safe, controlled environments.

Despite the sorrow, Frisco has come together in compassion and support. Neighbors are helping one another, schools are creating spaces for remembrance, and local organizations are offering counseling and guidance.

Through foundations, scholarships, and shared memories, Elizabeth Angle and Gracie Brito continue to touch lives even after their passing. Their story is not only one of tragedy, but of friendship, kindness, and a community united by love.

Though their time was far too short, their impact will endure — in the people they inspired, the lives they touched, and the hearts that will always remember them.