Somerset West police have opened an inquest docket following a fatal medical emergency at a local gymnasium on Friday evening (23 January).
Social media platforms were abuzz following reports that the facility was evacuated around 18:00, reportedly with a significant police and emergency services presence visible at the scene.
When contacted by DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette, a gym spokesperson confirmed that authorities and emergency services responded swiftly to a medical emergency, though they noted the facility has specific communication policies in place regarding such incidents.
According to Sergeant Suzan Jantjies, spokesperson for Somerset West police, a 72-year-old male member was at the gym with his spouse when he began feeling unwell.
“He reportedly told her that he was not feeling well and proceeded to the bathroom, where he battled to breathe,” Jantjies stated. “Despite response from medical personnel at the gym, he succumbed.”
Jantjies further stated that the deceased had a known medical history, but confirmed that the exact cause of death will be investigated as part of the inquest docket opened by police.
