‘An awful tragedy': Cleveland police recruit dies following medical emergency during training
[Attached video: Cleveland fire cadet dies after medical emergency during training]
CLEVELAND (WJW) — A Cleveland police recruit died after suffering a medical emergency during training, the Fox 8 I-Team learned.
Cleveland firefighter cadet dies after medical emergency
'Our hearts go out to his family,' said Cleveland Police Patrolmen's Association President Andy Gasiewski. 'An awful tragedy. It is a sad day and our hearts are broken.'
According to Gasiewski, and confirmed by the Cleveland Division of Police on Saturday, the 28-year-old recruit, identified as Cortez Smith, collapsed Friday during the final physical agility test.
Academy staff provided first aid before he was rushed to the hospital.
There, Smith's condition rapidly deteriorated, a news release from the Cleveland Division of Police said, and he became unresponsive. He was pronounced dead on Saturday, June 21.
FOX 8 received a statement from Smith's family Saturday afternoon, which said 'The Smith and Brown Family would like to thank the Cleveland Police Department, Chief Todd, Mayor Bibb and the entire city during this tremendously difficult time. We ask for prayers as we navigate this unexpected journey of grief. '
Police Chief Dorothy Todd said many are 'deeply affected' by the news of Smith's death.
'As we navigate this uncertain and emotional time, I ask that you keep Recruit Smith and his family in your thoughts. Please also offer your support to his fellow recruits and to one another,' Police Chief Dorothy Todd is quoted in the news release.
Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb also offered his support to Cortez's family, fellow recruits and the Cleveland Division of Police.
'This tragic loss leaves an unforgettable mark on our community and serves as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by those who choose to serve and protect. This is more than a tragedy—it's a profound loss to our city and to all who serve,' he said.
Suspect identified after man 'deliberately' hit, killed in Cleveland Metroparks
In May, a cadet in the Cleveland Division of Fire Academy died.
According to Cleveland city officials, the cadet, identified as Symeon Williams, 39, experienced a medical emergency during fitness training.
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