Caden Nowicki, 17, a senior at Ponder Independent School District in Denton County, died Thursday after suffering critical injuries earlier this week while sledding, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety and school officials.
Authorities said Nowicki was riding in a kayak that was being towed behind an all-terrain vehicle Monday afternoon when the kayak left the roadway.
He was ejected and struck a fence.
Nowicki was airlifted to a nearby hospital but succumbed to his injuries days later.
Ponder ISD Athletic Director and head football coach Marcus Schulz wrote in a social media tribute, “With heavy hearts our #44 Caden Nowicki crossed through the gates into our heavenly Father’s arms today,”
Superintendent James Hill described Nowicki as “an outstanding young man who is loved by many,” adding that the district is collecting food gift cards to support the family.
The ATV driver, identified as 22-year-old Jackson Long of Oklahoma, and another passenger were not injured. DPS officials say the investigation remains ongoing.
Public safety experts warn that towing sleds, kayaks, or tubes behind vehicles dramatically increases the risk of severe injury or death, particularly on icy roads.
As winter weather spreads into southern regions less familiar with snow conditions, authorities continue to urge residents to avoid vehicle-assisted sledding and to prioritize caution during rare but dangerous storms.
