Tragedy Strikes 2024 CrossFit Games: Athlete Drowns in Shocking Opening Day Disaster!
A heart-pounding start to the 2024 CrossFit Games turned fatal when a competitor tragically drowned during a swim event in Texas. 🌐 #News #FortWorthTX #Texas #Sports
FORT WORTH, TX – A competitor in the 2024 CrossFit Games died during a swim event Thursday morning in Texas, officials said.
A livestream of the swim competition held at Marine Creek Lake in Fort Worth on the opening day of the 2024 CrossFit Games Thursday morning appeared to show competitor Lazar Dukic struggling before disappearing under the water near the finish line.
In times of unimaginable loss, we are reminded of the words from Psalm 34:18, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
As the CrossFit community grapples with this tragedy, we extend our prayers and deepest sympathies to the family and friends affected. May they find solace in God’s unwavering presence during this difficult time.
A spectator appeared to jump into the water to assist. Fellow athlete Cole Learn said in a video shared on Instagram that athletes nearby “screamed for some lifeguards,” but they were “pretty far away.”
The Fort Worth Fire Department responded to the scene, but Dukic never resurfaced. It later appeared a body was being pulled onto a search and rescue boat.
CrossFit CEO Don Faul and Games Director Dave Castro confirmed at a press conference that a competitor died, but did not officially share a name pending family notification.
“We had safety personnel on site throughout the event,” Faul said, adding that the event’s documented safety plan would be shared with investigating authorities.
“CrossFit is, as you know, is in some ways like a family,” Faul said. “People care a lot about each other, and there’s a lot of people in the community that are hurting right now.”
The remaining Day 1 events were “suspended,” according to a statement from the CrossFit Games, but it was unclear if or when they would be rescheduled. The 2024 CrossFit Games were scheduled to run Aug. 8–11.
“We’re doing everything in our power during this tragic time to support the family, to support our community,” Faul said.
As we reflect on this tragic event, let us hold onto the promise of Isaiah 41:10: “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
In the face of sorrow, we seek comfort in our faith, trusting that God will provide peace and strength to all those who mourn.
Written by TMX staff, with additional reporting by Jack and Kitty Norton. Images courtesy of CrossFit Games on Facebook – follow them here.
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