HEARTBREAKING tributes have poured in for a dad-of-two weightlifter who was killed in a horror gym accident while bench-pressing.
Ronald Montenegro, 55, died after a heavy barbell slipped out his hands and onto his chest during a workout – with shocking footage showing the harrowing ordeal in Brazil.
In the horrifying clip, staff and other gym users are seen rushing to the amateur weightlifter’s aid after he frees himself from the huge weight.
Moments later he gets up – still obviously in agony – before collapsing to the ground seconds later.
The museum manager was rushed to hospital – but doctors could not do anything to save the “much-loved” dad.
The freak accident unfolded on Monday at Ronald’s regular gym, located in Olinda on Brazil’s north-east coast near the city of Recife.
The late athlete was president of the Palacio dos Bonecos Gigantes museum.
Located in Olinda, it houses giant paper mache and cloth puppets, about 15 feet tall and weighing as much as 45 kilos.
The monuments are a traditional part of the town’s vibrant carnival every February.
The museum said: “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.”
They added: “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.”
Police opened an investigation into the tragic ordeal but have already concluded it was an accident.
An unnamed relative told Brazilian media the beloved dad trained regularly to keep fit.
Referring to the chilling footage of Montenegro’s last moments, the family member said: “This is a workout that requires a trainer.
“In the video, you can see that he is fine, that he even does a session, warms up his arms to do it again, and when he sits down, he can’t do it and the bar slips.
They continued: “What we want is for gyms to look at the issue of prevention in relation to this equipment.
“Trainers cannot let students do it on their own, even if they know how to do the movement.”
The gym, RW Academia, also posted a tribute to Ronald and a photo of him on its social media.
The organisation said: “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.”
They extended their condolences to his family and friends and offered support to his loved ones.
