A Eugene Half-Marathon runner who collapsed just a few feet past the finish line at Hayward Field in Eugene on April 27 has died.
The runner was identified as Mateo Cruz, a 23-year-old resident of Eugene.
After a team of medics administered chest compressions to Cruz on scene, he was taken to a local hospital, according to the Eugene-Springfield Fire Department.
“He was one of the most amazing souls and he was so proud of his running accomplishments,” Christina Cruz, Mateo’s aunt, told The Register-Guard. “He loved running and was proud he was going to be doing another half-marathon. He was going to train for the marathon next.”
According to Christina, Mateo moved to Oregon a couple of years ago and worked at the Wildlife Safari with his grandmother. He also worked at a restaurant and at the local Fred Meyer.
“He loved Eugene. He said he was going to live in Oregon forever. He loved the people and the nature. He loved hiking, music, adventures and friends,” Christina said. “He will be deeply, deeply missed.”
Christina said Mateo had no known heart conditions and his family will not know more about the incident until they hear back from medical providers later this week.
The Cruz family has asked for privacy at this time.
“Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of Mateo Cruz,” Becky Radliff, marketing director for the Eugene Marathon, said. “This loss hurts us to the core. The entire running community who ran alongside Mateo yesterday mourns with his family.”
https://www.yahoo.com/news/23-old-runner-dies-collapsing-193200279.html
