YAKIMA, Wash.- UPDATED 12:00 P.M.
*Previous coverage claimed that the deceased had drowned in the Yakima River. The county coroner confirmed that victim died of a heart attack while participating in the Gap2Gap race.
Deputy Chief Coroner Marshall Slight confirmed that the 84-year-old man who died at Saturday’s Gap2Gap Race died of cardiac arrest after suffering a heart attack while on the water.
The family of the deceased reportedly told officials the 84-year-old man was feeling a bit sick the morning of the race, but still wanted to participate .
The coroner reports that the 84-year-old man was in very good physical health despite some coronary issues.
Officials have not released the name of the victim until all next of kin can be contacted.
ORIGINAL COVERAGE:
A man died at the Gap2Gap racing event on the Yakima River this morning after several attempts to save the 84-year-old’s life.
According to the Yakima County Sheriff’s Office (YCSO), at 9:35 a.m., a racing participant spotted the 84-year-old man in the river and tried to rescue him. The participant was able to get the attention of the Yakima County Sheriff’s Office’s Marine Patrol team, the Yakima City Firefighters, and Gap2Gap volunteers to rescue the man in distress.
Ambulance officials performed lifesaving efforts on the 84-year-old man but could not revive him.
The 84-year-old participant in the Gap2Gap race was reportedly in good condition for his age and is believed to have had a heart attack during the race, according to Yakima County Deputy Chief Coroner Marshall Slight.
The man’s name has not yet been released as the family continues to notify other members.
According to Sergeant Brad Martin of the YCSO, it is imperative to wear a lifejacket that is appropriate, well-fitted, and in good condition for water-related recreation.
