Tragic Gym Accident: Brazilian Museum Director Dies After Barbell Incident During Bench Press

Despite receiving immediate assistance and medical care, the victim could not survive the tragic incident.

A tragic accident occurred at a gym in Olinda on December 1, claiming the life of 55-year-old Ronald Montenegro, a Brazilian amateur weightlifter who also served as a museum president. While performing bench presses, Montenegro lost control of the barbell, which fell onto his chest. Fellow gym-goers immediately came to his aid, and he initially managed to free himself from under the weight. However, he collapsed shortly afterward. Emergency responders rushed him to a nearby medical facility, but physicians were unable to revive him. Local authorities investigated the incident and determined it was an accidental death.

The gym's security camera footage capturing the tragic event has since spread widely across social media platforms.

Montenegro was a prominent figure in Olinda as the director of the Palacio dos Bonecos Gigantes, a museum renowned for its massive puppets crafted from paper-mache and cloth, some reaching heights of 15 feet. Following his death, the museum issued a statement expressing profound grief, describing Montenegro as an integral individual who contributed significantly to preserving the city's cultural heritage. They honored him as a committed leader, artist, and passionate advocate for carnival traditions, according to Daily Express reports.

RW Academia, the gym where the incident occurred, paid tribute by sharing a memorial post featuring a photograph of Montenegro on their social media accounts.

Their statement read: "It is with deep sadness and dismay that RW Academia expresses its solidarity with the passing of our student Ronald Jose Salvador."

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The gym emphasized that their staff provided "immediate assistance" and promptly called for "specialized help."

The statement continued: "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." According to an anonymous family member who spoke with Brazilian media outlets, Montenegro exercised regularly to maintain his fitness.