Massachusetts State Police Recruit Dies Following Training Incident; Inquiry Launched into Boxing Program Safety

Police training boxing safety.

Tragic Loss at Massachusetts State Police Academy

BOSTON – A tragic incident at the Massachusetts State Police academy in New Braintree has left the community mourning after a recruit died following a medical emergency during training. The recruit, identified as Enrique Delgado-Garcia, was just 25 years old.

Medical Emergency During Training

According to reports, Delgado-Garcia suffered a critical injury during a boxing exercise, which is a standard part of the police training program. The incident occurred on September 12, when Delgado-Garcia became unresponsive during a defensive tactics training session.

The academy’s medical staff, which includes personnel from UMass Medical, promptly responded to the situation. They assessed that Delgado-Garcia required immediate medical attention and swiftly transported him to a nearby hospital. Unfortunately, despite the dedicated and ongoing efforts of medical professionals to save him, Delgado-Garcia passed away in the hospital.

Full State Police Honors and Investigation

Officials confirmed that Delgado-Garcia had been officially sworn in as a trooper before this tragic event. Following his death, police escorted his body from UMass Memorial Medical Center to the medical examiner’s office in Westfield, with a full honor ceremony in place.

The Worcester County District Attorney’s office is now investigating the circumstances surrounding Delgado-Garcia’s death.

Messages of Condolence

The loss has deeply affected many within the Massachusetts State Police. State Police Colonel John Mawn Jr. expressed the agency’s profound grief, stating, “We offer our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.” Mawn emphasized that Delgado-Garcia’s family will receive comprehensive support, highlighting that they remain integral to the State Police family.

Governor Maura Healey also expressed her sorrow, praising Delgado-Garcia for his commitment to serving the people of Massachusetts. “He was a beloved member of his academy class, known for his compassion and devotion to service,” she said, referring to the deep impact he had on those around him.

Delgado-Garcia’s Commitment to Service

Before joining the academy, Delgado-Garcia worked as a victim witness advocate in the Worcester District Attorney’s office. According to Colonel Mawn, he showed incredible determination and eagerness throughout his training at the academy, displaying all the traits that define an outstanding trooper.

“Enrique demonstrated an extraordinary capacity to learn and a desire to deliver excellent police services,” Mawn added, noting the loving nature he extended toward others.

Boxing Program Controversy

The boxing exercise, which has been a part of the academy’s training since the late 1990s, is designed to prepare recruits for handling unpredictable scenarios they may face in the field. The coordinator for defensive tactics training, Todd McGhee, shared his grief over the incident, emphasizing the safety measures in place during training sessions.

McGhee stated, “We pair trainees based on size and ability, and those with prior boxing experience are not allowed to participate. We also ensure that safety equipment, such as 16-ounce gloves and headgear, are mandatory.” He acknowledged that although injuries can happen, the occurrences of injuries of this nature are very rare, and the academy has sustained a strong safety record overall.

Looking Ahead

In light of this tragic event, McGhee indicated that changes to the training program might be forthcoming. “It’s important that we recognize this is a very unfortunate situation,” he said. “I do see changes coming, but this is not solely about one training exercise; it’s a broader look at what the state police has experienced.”

Conclusion

The death of Enrique Delgado-Garcia is not just a moment of sorrow for his family and friends but also a significant loss for the Massachusetts law enforcement community. As investigations continue, many in the community will strive to remember Delgado-Garcia’s dedication to service and the dreams he held as a future trooper.