Tributes have been made to an amateur weightlifter who died in a horror accident while bench pressing in the gym.
CCTV footage has been revealed showing the horrific moment that the barbell slipped out of Ronal Montenegro’s hands before it smacked into his chest.
Staff and gym goers rushed to the 55-year-old’s aid after he had managed to free himself, before clearly getting up in distress and collapsing to the ground just moments later.
The museum manager was rushed to a nearby health centre, but medics were unable to save the much-loved father of two.
The tragic accident occurred on Monday while Montenegro was working out at a gym he regularly trained at in Olinda, a colonial town on Brazil’s northeast Atlantic coast near Recife.
Ronald Montenegro’s Workplace Release Statement
The museum, Palacio dos Bonecos Gigantes, said in a statement: “It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Ronald Montenegro, our president and an indispensable figure in the history and construction of the Palacio dos Bonecos.
“Today we have lost not only a leader, but a friend, a creator, a passionate defender of popular culture, and one of the people most responsible for keeping alive the tradition of giant puppets that enchant Olinda and the world.
“His dedication, vision, and love for carnival have marked generations and will live on in every detail of our work.
“Out of respect for his memory and the mourning of his entire family and team, we inform you that the activities of the Palacio dos Bonecos will be suspended, returning to normal on December 5.
“We appreciate everyone’s understanding and ask that you join us in prayer and tribute to this great man who left an eternal legacy to the culture and tradition of the Olinda carnival.”
Gym Post Statement After Tragic Accident
The gym, RW Academia, joined in tribute to Montenegro, and said in its statement: “It is with deep sadness and dismay that RW Academia expresses its solidarity with the passing of our student, Ronald Jose Salvador.
“The entire team provided immediate assistance, promptly calling for specialised help. Despite all efforts, we received the news of his passing with immense sorrow.
“We extend our sincere condolences to his family and friends, wishing them strength and comfort at this time of immeasurable grief. Ronald Jose Salvador will always be remembered with respect and affection by all who were part of his journey in our community.
“We are fully available to offer all necessary support to his loved ones, assisting in any way we can during this difficult time.”
Family Member of Ronald Montenegro Reacts
A relative, who asked to remain anonymous, told Brazilian media that he trained regularly to stay fit. The family member said: “This is an exercise that really requires a trainer. In the video, you can see he’s fine. He even completes a set, warms up his arms to go again, then when he sits down, he just can’t manage it and the bar slips.
“What we want is for gyms to look at the issue of prevention in relation to this equipment. Trainers cannot let students do it on their own, even if they know how to do the movement.”
It is not clear how much weight the Brazilian man was lifting before he died in the tragedy.
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