Heartbreaking tributes have poured in for a dad-of-two weightlifter who died in a horrific gym accident while bench-pressing. Ronald Montenegro, 55, passed away after a heavy barbell slipped from his hands and crashed onto his chest during a workout, with shocking footage showing the terrifying moment in Brazil.
Harrowing footage showed the weight fall on him. In the disturbing clip, staff and gym members rsh to help the amateur weightlifter after he frees himself from the massive weight. Moments later, he stands up, still clearly in pain, before collapsing to the floor seconds afterward.
The museum manager was rushed to the hospital, but doctors could not save the much-loved father. The freak accident happened on Monday at Ronald’s regular gym in Olinda, on Brazil’s northeast coast near Recife.
The late athlete also served as president of the Palacio dos Bonecos Gigantes museum. Located in Olinda, the museum houses giant papier-mâché and cloth puppets that stand about 15 feet tall and weigh up to 45 kilos.
These figures are a traditional highlight of the town’s vibrant carnival every February. The museum said: “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.”
They added: “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.” Police launched an investigation into the incident but have already determined it was an accident.
A relative told Brazilian media that the beloved father trained regularly to stay fit. Referring to the chilling footage of Montenegro’s final moments, the family member said: “This is a workout that requires a trainer.
“In the video, you can see that he is fine, that he even does a session, warms up his arms to do it again, and when he sits down, he can’t do it and the bar slips.” They continued: “What we want is for gyms to address prevention when it comes to this equipment.
“Trainers cannot let students do it on their own, even if they know how to do the movement.” The gym, RW Academia, also shared a tribute to Ronald along with his photo on social media.
The organization said: “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.” They extended their condolences to his family and friends and offered support to his loved ones.
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