People shocked after athlete dies during CrossFit games

A competitor tragically drowned whilst completing the swimming segment at the CrossFit games in Texas.

Serbian athlete Lazar Dukic had been swimming in Fort Worth's Marine Creek Lake on Thursday morning (8 Aug), before witnesses saw him disappearing under the water.

As reported by CBS News, the providence's Fire Department and Police Department were called to the scene in the hope of recovering 28-year-old Dukic, who wasn't known to have had any difficulty swimming prior to the fitness tournament.

Fort Worth Fire Department spokesperson Craig Trojace later told the news outlet that his body had eventually been found in the creek with the assistance of of the police department dive team and drones.

Representatives from CrossFit also addressed the tragedy in a statement posted on social media yesterday, after it was announced that the popular event - which was supposed to continue until Sunday - had been suspended.

Confirming news of the drowning, they penned on Instagram: "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.

"The remainder of today’s events have been suspended. The well-being of competitors is our first priority and we are heartbroken by this tragic event."

CrossFit's CEO, Don Faul, also confirmed that they were 'working very closely with authorities on the follow-up investigation', as per The Independent.

Since announcement, countless onlookers of the tournament have expressed their shock at the horror which unfolded before them, whilst others have issued tributes in the late athlete's honour.

"Grateful for knowing him and have the opportunity to call him a brother! Amazing person and incredible athlete! Forever in our hearts!," one penned in the comment's of CrossFit's online tribute.

Another wrote: "This guy was an amazing human. Got to spend 10 days with him and his brother when they visited my gym in New York before the 2021 games. Such a sad and tragic loss."

"Pray. Please join us in prayer for @lazadjukic and his Family," a third begged.

Another went on: "Deepest condolences to his family and friends, fellow competitors, organisers, just tragic"

The heartbreaking loss has since been acknowledged by Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker, who issued his condolences to Dukic's friends and family following his passing.

"We are profoundly saddened by the tragic loss of a CrossFit athlete during a CrossFit Games swimming event this morning," the mayor wrote on Facebook. "Our hearts go out to the athlete's family, friends, and the entire CrossFit community."