Brazilian museum president dies in gym accident after barbell falls on chest
A 55-year-old Brazilian man died in a tragic weightlifting accident at a gym in Olinda on December 1, local media reported. Ronald Montenegro, an amateur weightlifter and the president of the iconic Palacio dos Bonecos Gigantes museum, was bench-pressing when the barbell slipped from his hands and crashed onto his chest.
Gym-goers rushed to his aid, and Montenegro managed to free himself from under the weight. But moments later, he collapsed.
He was immediately taken to a nearby health centre, where doctors attempted to revive him but were unable to save his life. Police later confirmed the incident was accidental.
CCTV footage of the incident, recorded inside the gym, has since gone viral online.
Montenegro was widely known in Olinda for leading the museum famous for its giant paper-mâché and cloth puppets, some towering up to 15 feet.
These larger-than-life figures are central to the city’s carnival culture.
In a heartfelt statement, the museum described Montenegro as “an essential figure” who dedicated himself to preserving Olinda’s artistic heritage. They remembered him as a passionate leader, creator, and cultural ambassador.
RW Academia, the gym where the accident occurred, also shared a tribute and a photograph of Montenegro on social media.
“It is with deep sadness and dismay that RW Academia expresses its solidarity with the passing of our student, Ronald Jose Salvador,” the gym said.
It added that the staff provided “immediate assistance” and called for specialised medical help.
“Despite all efforts, we received the news of his passing with immense sorrow. We extend our sincere condolences to his family and friends,” the statement read.
A relative, speaking anonymously to Brazilian media, said Montenegro trained regularly and maintained an active lifestyle.
The community in Olinda continues to mourn the loss of the beloved cultural figure, whose work helped shape the city’s vibrant carnival traditions.
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