Lazar Dukic passed away during the event taking place in a Texas lake.
Fitness competitor and CrossFit athlete Lazar Dukic passed away after drowning during the opening event of the 2024 CrossFit Games on Thursday.
The 28-year-old CrossFit competitor from Serbia was not seen finishing the event as other athletes began crossing the finish line. Dukic was seen on the live stream for the event approximately 100 meters from the finish line but did not cross. His identity was confirmed by the Tarrant County medical examiner’s office.
CrossFit shared an official statement on Instagram on Thursday night:
“We are devastated by the passing of Lazar Dukic. Our hearts are with Lazar’s entire family, friends, and fellow athletes. Out of respect for the family and in cooperation with the Fort Worth Police Department, we will share updates when possible.”
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The event saw athletes take part in an 800-meter swim in the Marine Creek Lake after completing a 3.5-mile run. The remaining events scheduled on Thursday were cancelled. The CrossFit Games continues on Friday morning.
CrossFit Releases Statements Following Death Of Lazar Dukic
The police and search and rescue teams on site at the event began investigating right away. Details were shared over the course of the afternoon as CrossFit began releasing statements.
Director of Sport Dave Castro shared a video on YouTube addressing what happened.
“It’s been an incredibly difficult day with the incident today with Lazar and I’m mourning just like out community is. Just like the family is and trying to focus on what we can do for them and how we can make it better with what we’re able to do with this small thing we have.”
The Professional Fitness Athletes Association shared a statement on Instagram on Thursday afternoon following the tragedy:
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Lazar, a friend, an amazing competitor, and a member of our Athlete Board.”
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