A tragic incident occurred during a CrossFit competition in Texas on Thursday, as a Serbian athlete drowned during a swimming event. The athlete, later identified as Lazar Dukic by the Tarrant County Medical Examiner, lost his life on the first day of the CrossFit Games being held in Fort Worth. The events for the day were canceled following the devastating news.
CrossFit CEO Don Faul expressed his deep sorrow during a press briefing, stating that he is „gutted“ by the death. He emphasized that the focus remains on supporting the community and the athlete’s family during this difficult time. The incident took place in Marine Creek Lake, where the Fort Worth Fire Department responded to a call regarding a missing participant. Dive teams and a drone were utilized to locate Dukic, who was found about an hour after the initial response.
The body of the athlete has been transferred to the Tarrant County Medical Examiner for further investigation. Faul acknowledged the profound impact of the tragedy on the community, noting that many are grieving the loss of someone they knew and respected. CrossFit is fully cooperating with authorities as they conduct their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The swimming portion of the event was being livestreamed before abruptly stopping, and safety personnel were present on-site during the competition. Thirty teams from around the world are participating in the CrossFit Games, which is being held in Texas for the first time in its history. CrossFit officials will be meeting to discuss the plan for the remainder of the games in light of the tragic event.
As this is a developing story, updates will be provided as more information becomes available. The entire CrossFit community and beyond mourn the loss of Lazar Dukic, a talented athlete whose life was cut short during a competition meant to showcase physical prowess and camaraderie. Our thoughts are with his loved ones during this difficult time.