Elmo, Texas – An 18-year-old woman was seriously injured Monday afternoon following a sledding-related accident in Elmo, Texas, amid dangerous icy conditions impacting large parts of North Texas. The incident has raised renewed safety concerns as residents continue outdoor activities during winter weather.
What Happened in Elmo
According to the Elmo Fire Department (EFD), the emergency occurred on FM 2728, located between U.S. Highway 80 and Interstate 20. Officials said the teen was riding on a sled that was being pulled behind an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) when the accident took place.
During the ride, the sled reportedly struck a piece of equipment, causing serious injuries to the young woman. Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene shortly after 4:51 p.m.
The Elmo Fire Department initially shared details of the incident through a Facebook post, which included images of a medical helicopter en route to assist.
Emergency Response and Medical Transport
Due to the severity of the injuries, a medical helicopter was requested and arrived at the scene to transport the injured teen to a nearby hospital. The fire chief later confirmed the airlift.
As of the latest update, the woman’s condition has not been publicly released. Authorities also confirmed that no other individuals were injured during the incident.
Officials Issue Safety Warning
In their social media update, the Elmo Fire Department urged residents to exercise caution, noting that similar sledding activities were being observed throughout the area.
“Responding with air in route to an ATV/sled incident. Be careful — several people in the response area are doing the same thing. Be safe,” the department stated.
Emergency officials emphasized that icy roadways, reduced visibility, and makeshift sledding methods significantly increase the risk of serious injuries.
Growing Concerns Amid Icy North Texas Weather
North Texas has experienced freezing temperatures and icy conditions in recent days, prompting school closures, travel advisories, and multiple emergency responses. While sledding and ATV-pulled activities may appear harmless, first responders warn that such practices can quickly turn dangerous without proper safety measures.
Fire departments across the region continue to remind residents to avoid risky winter activities, especially those involving motorized vehicles and improvised equipment.
Investigation Ongoing
The incident remains under investigation, and authorities have not released further details regarding potential contributing factors or whether safety equipment was being used at the time of the crash.
Officials encourage anyone engaging in winter recreation to prioritize safety and remain aware of their surroundings, particularly during extreme weather events.
