Cleveland Police Recruit Dies After Medical Emergency During Final Fitness Test

Cleveland police recruit Cortez Smith died after suffering a sudden medical emergency during the final physical agility test of his academy training. Despite immediate aid and hospitalization, Smith's condition rapidly worsened, and he was pronounced dead the following day. Cleveland Police Chief Dorothy A. Todd and Mayor Justin M. Bibb expressed deep sorrow, emphasizing the profound loss to the community and the sacrifices made by those serving in public safety roles. The Cleveland Police Department and community continue to mourn while asking for privacy for Smith's family. This incident follows a recent similar tragedy involving a Cleveland fire cadet who also died after a medical emergency during fitness training. The loss highlights ongoing concerns about the intense physical demands faced by recruits in public safety academies.