Montenegro’s life was cut short by the freak accident, which unfolded on Tuesday at the fitness facility where he was a regular in Olinda, on Brazil’s northeast coast near the city of Recife.
His place of work, the Palacio dos Bonecos Gigantes museum, confirmed the tragedy in a statement alongside a photo of Montenegro and a black ribbon.
“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,” the announcement read, according to Mail Online.
The 55-year-old from Brazil initially got up but seconds later he collapsed to the floor. Photo / Supplied
Police opened an investigation into the incident but have concluded it was an accident, the publication said.
The gym, RW Academia, also posted a tribute on its social media.
“It is with deep sadness and dismay that RW Academia expresses its solidarity with the passing of our student Ronald Jose Salvador,” it read.
“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.”
Footage from the gym has since been shared online, with many horrified at how quickly the accident took his life, while others expressed concerns it appeared to show Montenegro was working out alone.
“This is why it’s so important to have a spotter! Poor man, I feel so bad that happened to him,” said one.
“Dang. Life changed in a matter of seconds,” said another.
A relative, who asked not to be identified, told Brazilian media Montenegro was a regular at the gym and trained to keep fit.
“This is a workout that requires a trainer,” he said, according to the Express.
“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.
“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.”
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