Horror As Weightlifter Dies in Freak Gym Accident

Tributes have poured in for an amateur weightlifter who died while bench pressing during a gym session.

Museum manager Ronald Montenegro was performing a barbell bench press when the bar slipped from his hands and crashed down onto his chest.

He managed to get the bar off his chest and stand up before collapsing to the ground as other gym goers rushed over to try and help.

As per the Daily Mail, the dad-of-two was taken to a nearby health centre, but they were unable to save him.

The incident took place on Monday at a gym in the town of Olinda, on Brazil's north-east Atlantic coast near the city of Recife.

Montenegro was the president of a museum called the Palacio dos Bonecos Gigantes in the colonial town of Olinda.

The museum has now issued a statement following his death.

Ronald Montenegro was a museum manager

It read: "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.

"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."

Although police launched an investigation into Monday's incident, they have concluded that it was an accident.

The gym where the incident occurred, RW Academia, has also posted a tribute to the amateur weightlifter.

In a statement, they wrote: "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.

"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.

"We are fully available to offer all necessary support to his loved ones, assisting in any way we can during this difficult time."