An athlete participating in the CrossFit Games 2024 drowned tragically during the swimming portion of the competition at Marine Creek Lake in Fort Worth, Texas. Serbian athlete Lazar Đukić has been identified as the victim.
A somber cloud has descended upon the CrossFit Games 2024 following the heartbreaking drowning of an athlete during the swimming portion of the competition. The incident occurred on Thursday morning at Marine Creek Lake in Fort Worth, Texas.
Serbian athlete Lazar Đukić, 28, has been identified as the victim. Đukić was last seen towards the end of the 800-meter swim, which was being livestreamed for the 2024 CrossFit Games.
Tragedy Strikes: CrossFit Games Athlete Drowns During Event
Authorities were alerted shortly after 8 a.m. when Đukić disappeared during the swim. Helicopters spotted a boat searching around a buoy in the middle of the lake. The Fort Worth Fire Department recovered Đukić's body around 10 a.m.
The Fort Worth Police Department is withholding the identity of the athlete until the Tarrant County Medical Examiner's report is complete and the victim's family has been notified.
Tragedy Strikes: CrossFit Games Athlete Drowns During Event
The CrossFit Games issued a statement expressing deep sadness over the tragedy: "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. We are fully cooperating with authorities and doing everything we can to support the family at this time."
The event was suspended following the drowning, with the well-being of competitors being the top priority. The CrossFit Games is a four-day competition, with athletes from 33 countries vying for the title of "Fittest on Earth."
Tragedy Strikes: CrossFit Games Athlete Drowns During Event
Đukić was a seasoned athlete, having competed in multiple CrossFit Games in the past. He ranked third in Serbia and 88th overall in the world among men.
The CrossFit community mourns the loss of one of its own and extends heartfelt condolences to Đukić's family, friends, and teammates. The incident serves as a reminder of the risks and challenges associated with extreme physical competition.
The Fort Worth Police and Fire Department have yet to provide an official statement on the matter. The investigation into the incident is ongoing.
* The event began Thursday at 7 a.m., involving a 3½-mile run after the 800-meter swim.
* This is the first time the CrossFit Games has been held in Fort Worth.
* The event features athletes from 33 countries competing to earn the title of "Fittest on Earth."
* Đukić was a seasoned athlete, having competed in multiple CrossFit Games in the past.
* The CrossFit community is mourning the loss of one of its own and expressing condolences to his family and loved ones.
