Footage has surfaced showing an athlete who tragically drowned during a CrossFit event. Lazar Dukic was competing in a swimming event on Marine Creek Lake near Fort Worth, Texas, yesterday morning (August 8) when he vanished just 100 meters from the finish line.
Fort Worth emergency services officials reported that he disappeared underwater and did not resurface.
Emergency services were called to the scene around 8am local time, and his body was recovered within an hour.
El atleta serbio Lazar Dukic, de 28 años, falleció trágicamente durante una prueba de natación en los CrossFit Games en Fort Worth, Texas.
La organización del evento suspendió todas las actividades del día y está cooperando con las autoridades en la investigación. La comunidad… pic.twitter.com/q5ZhXvyZrP
— NLatinasEspaña (@n_latinas) August 9, 2024
A dive team from the Fort Worth Police Department, supported by aerial drones, located his body.
Initially, the CrossFit Games were suspended to allow organisers to cooperate fully with authorities. However, the games will continue today (August 9).
A statement from the event’s PR firm said: “After careful thought and many conversations internally, with athletes, and with Lazar Dukic’s family, it’s been decided that the CrossFit Games will continue throughout the remainder of the weekend at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas.”
The event also released a statement yesterday: “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.”
His sponsors and long-term partners have set up a GoFundMe page to support Dukic’s family.
The page describes Dukic as a kind, humorous, and supportive individual, stating: “Known for his kindness, humor, and supportive nature, Lazar brought a breath of fresh air wherever he went. Beyond his athletic achievements, Lazar was caring, humorous and relentlessly supported those around him. His warm, supportive nature and quick wit left a lasting impression on everyone he met.”
The mayor of Fort Worth, Mattie Parker, stated to CBS News that the city is providing mental health and grief counselling to those affected by Dukic’s death.
Speaking yesterday, Parker said: “We are profoundly saddened by the tragic loss of a CrossFit athlete during a CrossFit Games swimming event this morning. Our hearts go out to the athlete’s family, friends, and the entire CrossFit community.”
Today’s sporting events will commence with a special tribute to Đukić at Dickies Arena at 10am local time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What happened to Lazar Dukic during the CrossFit Games?
Lazar Dukic drowned during a swimming event on Marine Creek Lake and did not resurface.
How did the authorities recover Lazar Dukic’s body?
A dive team from Fort Worth Police Department and drones helped locate his body.
Are the CrossFit Games cancelled after the incident?
The CrossFit Games were initially suspended but will continue after discussions with Dukic’s family.
Is there any support for Lazar Dukic’s family?
A GoFundMe page has been set up to support Dukic’s family.
Will there be any tribute for Lazar Dukic?
Today’s events will start with a special tribute to Đukić at Dickies Arena at 10am local time.