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UPDATE: Coroner Announces Caleb Moore Has Died

by KREX News Room

Story Created: Feb 1, 2013 at 11:55 AM MDT

Story Updated: Feb 1, 2013 at 12:09 PM MDT

GRAND JUNCTION, We can now formally confirm that X Games competitor Caleb Moore, who suffered serious injuries in a snowmobile crash last week, has passed away at St. Mary's Hospital.

Several national media outlets reported Moore's death Thursday, citing a statement released by the snowmobile racer's publicist.

However, according to a member of the Pitkin County Coroner's Office - that wasn't the case.
Deputy Coroner Eric Hansen insisted Moore was still on life support in the hospital's intensive care unit.

Many of you have questioned why NewsChannel 5 didn't also report Moore as deceased Thursday, and wondered why the Pitkin County Coroner's statement mattered.

To clarify: Caleb Moore sustained his initial injuries in Aspen, which means the Pitkin County Coroner has jurisdiction. We would not report anyone deceased until the coroner can confirm it.

Nonetheless, coroner's officials are now confirming that he has passed.

A statement released by the family's publicist reads, in part:

"He will be truly missed and never forgotten. The family wishes to express their deep gratitude for all the prayers and support they have received from all the fans, friends and family around the world that Caleb has inspired."

Members of the sports world are reacting on Twitter to the reports of Moore's passing.

New York Jets quarterback Tim Tebow wrote: "So sad to hear about the passing of snowmobiler Caleb Moore. My prayers go out to his younger brother Colten & their entire family."

Freestyle skier Kaya Turski wrote: "The spirit of Caleb Moore will be floating among us forever. RIP."

Surfer Kelly Slater tweeted: "Tragic. Don't even know what to say."

Again, the Deputy Coroner of Pitkin County has now confirmed that Caleb Moore was pronounced dead late Thursday night or early Friday morning.

It's the first fatality in the 17-year history of the X Games.

To donate money to Moore's family to cover medical expenses, visit www.giveforward.com/calebmoore

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... said on Saturday, Feb 2 at 11:23 AM

So even with the confirmation of his family and publisits, which family should trump all. You couldn't show the slightest courtesy to him?

Anonymous said on Friday, Feb 1 at 8:55 PM

So, the next time there is a fatal accident on I-70 you are going to wait a day or two on the Coroner before you "formally confirm" it? Only to create false hope and confusion in the community? What an embarrassment for you! Your reporting last night and this morning couldn't be more irresponsible!

Anonymous said on Friday, Feb 1 at 5:54 PM

Did you read the report correctly? His time of death was listed as "9:30 a.m. on 1/31/13." That would be Thursday morning. The report came out Friday, but he was dead on Thursday morning.

annbigos said on Friday, Feb 1 at 3:50 PM

I followed Caleb's career along with my daughter. I thought he was a beautifu, talented young man. My heart breaks for both Caleb and his family. Rest in peace,Caleb.

anonymous said on Friday, Feb 1 at 2:48 PM

at least he died doing what he loved doing, as did a young member of my family. RIP caleb moore, my thoughts and prayers go out to his family

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