A competitor in the 2024 CrossFit Games died on Thursday during a swimming event in Texas, the games’ organizers said.
CrossFit Games said in a statement posted on social media it is “deeply saddened” by the death and the rest of Thursday’s events in Fort Worth are suspended.
“CrossFit is deeply saddened by the death of a CrossFit Games competitor during the swimming portion of Individual Event 1 at the 2024 CrossFit Games,” the statement said.
“We are fully cooperating with authorities and doing everything we can to support the family at this time. The remainder of today’s events have been suspended. The well-being of competitors is our first priority and we are heartbroken by this tragic event.”
The Tarrant County Medical Examiner’s Office identified the victim as Lazar Dukic, 28, of Serbia, NBC Dallas-Fort Worth reported. A cause of death has not been confirmed.
Fort Worth officials did not immediately respond to a request by NBC News for comment on Thursday afternoon.
NBC Dallas-Fort Worth reported emergency crews recovered the body from Marine Creek Lake. The Fort Worth Fire Department arrived about 8 a.m. Thursday for a search-and-rescue operation. The department used a boat, dive teams and drones in its search, and a body was recovered about an hour later, according to the outlet.
Fort Worth mayor Mattie Parker said in a statement that grief counselors were available for anyone who needs the services following the “tragic loss.”
“We are profoundly saddened by the tragic loss of a CrossFit athlete during a CrossFit Games swimming event this morning. Our hearts go out to the athlete’s family, friends, and the entire CrossFit community,” Parker said.
She continued: “We take great pride in being the host city for the CrossFit Games and remain committed to working closely with CrossFit to provide a supportive environment for all athletes, spectators, and visitors. As such, we have coordinated mental health and grief counselors to support those in need during this difficult time.”
This year’s competition at Dickies Arena began Thursday and ends Sunday, according to the event’s website.
The event bills itself as a competition among world athletes for the title of “Fittest on Earth.”
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