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Unthinkable tragedy at a CrossFit competition in the USA: Serbian athlete drowns helpless just before the finish line

Video shows Lazar Đukić struggling to stay above water but failing – Questions arise about the organizers' response

Newsroom August 9 10:36

A tragic incident occurred during a CrossFit competition in Texas, USA, where a Serbian athlete lost his life after disappearing underwater just before reaching the finish line.

Videos have captured the final moments of Lazar Đukić, who can be seen struggling to stay above the water but, unfortunately, was unable to do so.

Whilst everyone is watching Tia race for the finish. Including it appears the @CrossFitGames safety team. lazar dukic is left to drown with apparantely spectators being turned away from attempting a rescue. #Lazar #LazarDukic #FortWorth #CrossfitGames pic.twitter.com/jsE71RQF9r

— Diverbuzz (@diverbuzz) August 8, 2024

The body of the unfortunate Serbian athlete was found an hour after the first divers arrived at the scene.

The tragic incident occurred during a race held at Marine Creek Lake, with many criticizing the decision to have swimming as the final event for the first time in such a competition, following cycling and running.

In one of the videos, a spectator is seen jumping into the water to help Đukić, as the race lifeguards did not seem to notice the Serbian athlete’s distress.

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If you look to the far right you can see what looks to be a spectator jump in the water. Hearing Lazar is still missing. Hope everybody’s okay, scary stuff. #crossfit #crossfitgames #runswim pic.twitter.com/WbnNnsCphO

— Cameron Hogg (@Camhogg70) August 8, 2024

The head of the organizing committee, in a press conference, expressed his sorrow over Đukić’s death, asserting that safety personnel were present during the event. He also mentioned that they are cooperating with Texas authorities in the ongoing investigation.

According to Đukić’s biography on the event’s website, the Serbian athlete was ranked No. 3 in his country for the sport and held the No. 88 spot in the global rankings.

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