A Tragic Loss: University of Colorado Freshman Corey Hausman Dies at 18 After Skateboarding Accident
The University of Colorado Boulder is mourning the loss of freshman Corey Hausman, who tragically passed away on September 12, at the age of 18. Corey sustained fatal injuries the previous day when he fell off his skateboard while riding to a friend’s house. The accident occurred on September 11, and despite efforts to save him, Corey succumbed to his injuries the following day.
In an obituary published by *Westport Now*, a local Connecticut news outlet, Corey’s family expressed their profound grief over the unexpected loss. “It is unbelievable to think that Corey’s story on earth ended so abruptly,” the family wrote. “He was the happiest person on earth, and he was able to bring his joy to others.” They shared that Corey had a unique ability to bring happiness to those around him and left an indelible mark on everyone he encountered. In his memory, his family urged others to follow his example: “Find personal happiness every day, and bring joy to the world by simply making others smile and laugh.”
Corey, originally from Westport, Connecticut, had just begun his journey as a college student at CU Boulder, residing in Willard Hall on campus. His sudden death has shaken the university community, and his loss is deeply felt by friends, classmates, and faculty. Lisa Bowker, the director of Willard Hall, informed residents of Corey’s passing through a heartfelt email, expressing the sorrow shared by the community. “Corey was a vibrant member of our community and will be greatly missed,” Bowker wrote. She encouraged students to seek emotional support, whether by meeting with her directly or through other available resources on campus.
To help students cope with this tragedy, Bowker pointed to CU Boulder’s Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) and the Office of Victim Assistance, both of which offer confidential support. All CU students, regardless of their health insurance, are eligible for six free counseling sessions each academic year. These services are designed to help students process the emotional and psychological impact of such events, and the university has made them readily available to anyone in need during this difficult time.
Corey’s death has also touched people beyond the university. James Blake, a former professional tennis player and New York Times bestselling author, publicly acknowledged Corey’s passing on social media. “Keeping Corey Hausman and his family in my thoughts and prayers today,” Blake tweeted. “He is not someone that had a public profile, but he had friends and family who loved him.” While the exact nature of Blake’s connection to Corey remains unclear, his message underscores the far-reaching impact of Corey’s life and the widespread grief over his loss.
CU Boulder spokesperson Ryan Huff also addressed the tragic event in a public statement, highlighting the university’s sorrow over the loss of one of its students. “Anytime we lose a member of the Buffs family, our hearts are heavy and we are saddened by the loss,” Huff said. He extended the university’s condolences to Corey’s family and friends, emphasizing the importance of supporting one another through such difficult times. “We have offered counseling and other support to Corey’s classmates and any other students, faculty, and staff who are grieving his passing,” Huff added.
In the wake of this tragedy, Corey’s family and friends have found solace in commemorating his life. A family friend, Anthony LoFrisco, Jr., has created a website in Corey’s honor, *coreyhausman.com*. The site features touching notes from friends and family, offering their deepest condolences and sharing fond memories of Corey. The website serves as a virtual memorial where people can come together to celebrate Corey’s life, remember his joyful spirit, and express their support for his grieving family.
A memorial service for Corey is scheduled for September 29 in Connecticut. The family has asked that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Corey’s name to an environmental charity, reflecting his love for the outdoors and his passion for nature. Corey was an avid skier and outdoor enthusiast, and his family believes that supporting environmental causes is a fitting way to honor his memory.
As the CU Boulder community continues to mourn the loss of Corey Hausman, his memory lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His ability to bring joy to others and his zest for life will not be forgotten, and his family’s request to spread happiness and kindness in his honor serves as a lasting tribute to the life he lived.