07-07-2025
Runner dies after collapsing near finish line of Howick 10km race
Runner dies after collapsing near finish line of Howick 10km race
A 57-year-old runner collapsed near the finish line of the Howick 10km race from Mpophomeni Shopping Mall to Howick West in KZN yesterday.
The Witness reports that he was later declared dead at Hilton Life Hospital after receiving intensive care from Midlands EMS paramedics on the scene.
Midlands EMS operations director Roland Robertson says crews were on medical standby at the event. The runner collapsed 'moments before completing the race', he says.
Midlands EMS paramedics on site responded immediately and found the athlete in cardiac arrest. CPR was commenced without delay, and advanced life support (ALS) protocols were initiated.
'The patient was placed on a manual ventilator and received multiple shocks from a defibrillator in an effort to restore a heartbeat,' Robertson says.
He adds that the sustained and intense resuscitation efforts resulted in the patient being stabilised. He was then transported, under continuous ALS care, to a nearby hospital, where he unfortunately died.
'Midlands EMS extends its heartfelt condolences to the athlete's family and loved ones during this very difficult time. Our thoughts are with you,' Robertson says.
KZN Athletics president Steve Mkasi told The Witness that the organisation is awaiting a detailed report.
He added that the next of kin has been contacted and that it was unfortunate that the man died while running, an activity that is part of a healthy lifestyle.
He said the event organiser had taken all the necessary precautions by organising an ambulance, which responded promptly, and paramedics did the best they could to assist the athlete.
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