In a devastating winter accident that has shaken the Frisco, Texas community, two 16-year-old best friends—Elizabeth “Lizzie” Angle and Grace “Gracie” Brito—lost their lives after a sled they were riding, towed by a Jeep Wrangler, struck a curb and collided with a tree. The incident occurred on Sunday, January 25, 2026, amid rare snowy conditions in North Texas, turning what was meant to be a joyful outing into an unimaginable tragedy.

The driver of the Jeep, a 16-year-old boy, has now been identified by authorities, though his name has not been publicly released due to his minor status and the ongoing investigation. Frisco police confirmed early on that the teenage male was operating the vehicle while pulling the sled carrying the two girls through a residential neighborhood near Majestic Gardens Drive and Killian Court. No charges have been filed against the driver as of the latest updates, with officials emphasizing that the crash remains under active investigation.

Elizabeth Angle, a sophomore at Wakeland High School and a passionate soccer player, died shortly after the collision from her severe injuries. She was remembered by her family as a kind-spirited, bright young girl who loved her friends and teammates. Her parents, Megan and Brian Angle, shared the heartbreaking news on social media, describing the sudden loss and urging caution in winter activities.

Gracie Brito, also 16 and a sophomore at the same school, fought for her life on support systems but succumbed to her injuries on Tuesday, January 27, 2026. Her family confirmed her passing and noted that she fulfilled her wish to become an organ donor, offering a final act of generosity amid profound grief. Gracie was an accomplished competitive cheerleader with Express Cheer and, remarkably, had already enrolled as a freshman at Louisiana State University despite her young age. Friends and family described her as spirited, joyful, and inseparable from Elizabeth.

Witness accounts have begun to emerge, painting a clearer picture of how the incident unfolded in a matter of seconds. Locals and nearby residents reported hearing a sudden, violent crash. Several described the sled hitting a curb—possibly a mild elevation or sidewalk edge—before slamming into a tree. One account noted that the impact seemed abrupt, with personal items from the girls found scattered close together near the sled, suggesting the stop was instantaneous and forceful.

Some witnesses indicated the Jeep was navigating what appeared to be a gentle curve rather than a sharp turn, but investigators are examining factors such as vehicle speed, road conditions from the snow, and the mechanics of towing a sled in a suburban area. Preliminary reports do not point to extreme recklessness, but authorities are reviewing any available CCTV footage and physical evidence to determine contributing elements. The snowy weather, unusual for Texas, likely played a role in reduced traction and visibility.

The girls were reportedly holding on to each other during the ride, a detail shared by Elizabeth’s mother that underscored their close bond even in their final moments. What began as innocent fun—enjoying the rare snow with friends—ended in tragedy, highlighting the hidden dangers of improvised winter activities like towing sleds behind vehicles.

Community response has been overwhelming, with tributes pouring in from classmates, teachers, and neighbors. Wakeland High School and the broader Frisco area are mourning the loss of two vibrant young lives. Fundraisers, vigils, and messages of support have circulated widely, with many calling for greater awareness about the risks of such activities. Experts and safety advocates have reiterated warnings: towing people on sleds or tubes behind cars, ATVs, or other vehicles is highly dangerous, often leading to loss of control, collisions, or ejection injuries, especially on uneven surfaces or in poor conditions.

The driver, also a teenager, is said to be devastated, carrying immense guilt over the outcome. Many in the community have expressed compassion for him, noting that youth, inexperience, and the excitement of snow can lead to split-second decisions with lifelong consequences. No evidence suggests intentional harm, and the focus remains on understanding the sequence rather than assigning blame prematurely.

This incident adds to a series of weather-related tragedies during the recent storm system affecting parts of the U.S., but it stands out for its personal toll on young lives full of promise. Elizabeth and Gracie were not just victims of an accident; they were best friends, athletes, students, and daughters whose absence leaves a permanent void.

As the investigation continues, the Frisco Police Department has urged anyone with information to come forward. The story serves as a stark reminder of how fragile joy can be and the importance of safety, even in moments of play. Families, schools, and communities across North Texas continue to grieve, holding onto memories of two girls who lived brightly and loved deeply.