An athlete drowned during a CrossFit Games competition at Marine Creek Lake in Fort Worth on Thursday morning.
The athlete was later identified by the Tarrant County Medical Examiner as 28-year-old Lazar Dukic from Serbia.Events for Thursday were canceled. The schedule beyond Thursday is unclear at this point.
The distress call went out around 8 a.m. when Dukic, who was swimming with a pack of competitors, vanished near the finish line. An investigation is underway.
“We’re doing everything in our power. During this tragic time to support the family, to support our community. We are collaborating and working very closely with the authorities on the follow on investigation,” said Don Faul, the CEO of CrossFit
Dokic was taking part in a run swim event, which included a 3.5-mile run followed by an 800-meter swim.
We are fully cooperating with authorities and doing everything we can to support the family at this time,” read a statement from The CrossFit Games. “The well-being of competitors is our first priority and we are heartbroken by this tragic event.
“Police and fire were called to the area at 8. The body was recovered around 10.
“Our hearts go out to the athlete’s family, friends and the entire CrossFit community. We take 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,” said Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker in a statement
Parker said the city has coordinated mental health and grief counselors for athletes, spectators and visitors.
“You just don’t think this is going to happen. These are elite athletes,” said Pritchard. “To think that 30-ish minutes later one of the fittest people in the world is just gone like that.”
