This is a tragic story involving the death of 25-year-old Massachusetts State Police recruit Enrique Delgado-Garcia, who passed away after suffering a medical crisis during a training exercise at the academy. Delgado-Garcia had been critically injured during a boxing exercise, a standard part of state police training, and remained on life support before passing at a Worcester hospital.
The incident occurred during a defensive tactics training session, with the academy’s on-site medical team responding promptly and transporting Delgado-Garcia for emergency care. Despite their efforts, he could not be saved. The recruit had already been sworn in as a trooper and will receive full honors posthumously.
The boxing program, part of the academy’s curriculum, aims to help recruits develop the ability to handle high-stress situations. According to Todd McGhee, the former defensive tactics coordinator at the academy, numerous safeguards were in place to prevent injuries, but tragedies like this are extremely rare.
The Worcester County District Attorney’s office is investigating the death, and State Police Colonel John Mawn Jr. and Gov. Maura Healey expressed their sorrow and extended their support to Delgado-Garcia’s family and colleagues. The recruit was known for his dedication to service, both at the academy and in his previous role as a victim witness advocate.