Tragedy in a Gym in Brazil: Weightlifter Dies During Bench Press.

Tragedy in the Brazilian Gym

According to ТСН: In the town of Olinda, on Brazil's northeastern coast, 55-year-old amateur weightlifter Ronald Montenegro tragically died during training at the "RW Academia" gym. Local media and police confirmed the information, stating that it happened accidentally, and an investigation has been launched.

According to the investigation and surveillance camera footage, the tragedy occurred during a bench press. The weights slipped from Montenegro's hands and fell on his chest. The man managed to free himself from the load but collapsed and lost consciousness. Paramedics who arrived at the scene provided assistance and transported him to a medical center; however, unfortunately, they could not save the athlete.

Important Figure of Olinda

Ronald Montenegro was not only an active gym visitor but also a significant cultural figure, heading the Museum of Giant Dolls (Palacio dos Bonecos Gigantes) in Olinda. This museum is famous for its giant dolls, which are up to 4.5 meters tall and weigh up to 45 kg. Made from papier-mâché and fabric, these dolls are an integral part of the city's annual carnival tradition.

Condolences and Safety

The museum's management issued a statement expressing deep sorrow over the loss of Ronald:

"With deep sadness, we announce the passing of Ronald Montenegro – our president and an irreplaceable figure in the history of the Palace of Dolls. Today we have lost not only a leader but also a friend, a creator, a passionate defender of folk culture..."

The museum's activities were temporarily suspended until December 5 in honor of the deceased.

The administration of "RW Academia" also expressed its condolences:

"With deep sadness and confusion, RW Academia expresses solidarity in connection with the death of our student Ronald José Salvador..."

A relative of the deceased, who wished to remain anonymous, emphasized the importance of adhering to safety measures during training:

"Such training requires the presence of a coach. ... We demand that gyms pay attention to safety issues..."

The police determined that Montenegro's death was the result of an accident. The weight of the barbell being lifted by the athlete is currently not disclosed.

Similar accidents have occurred before, including in China and Taiwan.

Ronald Montenegro left behind two children.

The tragedy that occurred in Olinda underscores the importance of safety during training in gyms. The situation has prompted discussions on the need to strengthen oversight of the training process and adherence to safety rules in sports institutions. A safe training environment should become a priority to avoid such tragic incidents in the future.