Tributes are pouring in for an amateur weightlifter who died in a horrific accident while bench-pressing at his local gym in Brazil. The tragic incident, captured on CCTV, occurred on Monday in the colonial town of Olinda, near Recife on the country's north-east Atlantic coast.
A Fatal Moment in the Gym
Shocking footage shows the moment a heavy barbell slipped from the hands of 55-year-old Ronald Montenegro, crashing onto his chest. After managing to free himself, the father-of-two got up in obvious agony before collapsing to the ground seconds later. Fellow gym users and staff rushed to his aid immediately.
Ronald was taken to a nearby health centre, but medics could not save him. Police have opened an investigation but have already concluded the incident was a tragic accident.
A Cultural Leader Lost
Ronald Montenegro was the president of the famous Palacio dos Bonecos Gigantes museum in Olinda. The museum houses giant papier-mâché and cloth puppets, a traditional centrepiece of the town's vibrant February carnival. These puppets stand about 15 feet tall and can weigh up to 45 kilograms.
In a heartfelt statement accompanied by a photo of Ronald and a black ribbon, the museum said: 'It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Ronald Montenegro, our president and an indispensable figure.' They described him as a friend, creator, and passionate defender of popular culture who was vital in keeping the tradition of giant puppets alive.
The museum has suspended its activities until 5 December as a mark of respect.
Calls for Improved Gym Safety
The gym involved, RW Academia, also posted a tribute, expressing 'deep sadness and dismay' and confirming their team provided immediate assistance. They described Ronald as a 'much loved person' who would be remembered with affection.
A family member, speaking anonymously to Brazilian media, highlighted serious safety concerns. They stated that the bench press 'is a workout that requires a trainer' and called for gyms to re-examine prevention measures. 'Trainers cannot let students do it on their own, even if they know how to do the movement,' the relative urged, following the release of the CCTV footage.
Ronald's funeral took place shortly after the accident. He was known to train regularly to keep fit.
This tragic event echoes similar gym fatalities worldwide. In September 2023, a 27-year-old man in China died when his neck was crushed by a barbell loaded with over 100kg. The previous year, a weightlifter in Taiwan was throttled by a 230lb barbell before being rescued.
It remains unclear exactly how much weight Ronald Montenegro was attempting to lift during his final, fateful workout.
