By Jennifer Lilonsky (staff@latinospost.com) | First Posted: Feb 02, 2013 03:56 PM EST

Snowmobiler Caleb Moore died Thursday morning in a Colorado hospital after suffering injuries while competing in a course at the 2013 Winter X Games.

The Pitkin County coroner's officer said that the 25-year-old was declared brain dead and that his organs will be donated.

"Caleb Moore passed away," the Moore family said in a statement released by spokeswoman Chelsea Lawson. "He will truly be missed."

"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 inspired."

Moore died at St. Mary's Hospital in Grand Junction, Colo. after under rotating his sled in the freestyle final competition. The skis of his sled hit him while he slid down the landing ramp.

Deputy Coroner Eric Hansen ruled his death as accidental, according to a press release.

The X Games are produced by ESPN and Moore's death marks the first fatality associated with the extreme sporting competition since its start 18 years ago.

"For 18 years, we have worked closely on safety issues with athletes, course designers and other experts," ESPN said. "Still, when the world's best compete at the highest level in any sports, risks remain."

Moore's younger brother Colten, 23, crashed on the same day and was hospitalized with a separated pelvis. Colten was later released on Jan. 25 and did not require surgery, according to Lawson.

A website was created on behalf of the Moore family to raise money for medical bills. At the time of this post, $51,220 was raised.

DONATE TO THE MOORE FAMILY

(SOURCE)