A Florida corrections officer died Sunday, two days after participating in a statewide competition.
Sgt. Jorge Ramos was taking part in the Correctional Emergency Response Team (CERT) competition at Sumter Correctional Institution in Bushnell on Friday when he collapsed, according to WJXT-TV.
Ramos was transported to Tampa General Hospital where he remained until he was pronounced dead Sunday afternoon.
The cause of his death has not yet been determined.
"Sgt. Ramos was an outstanding example of the character and values that set our Department's employees apart," Corrections Secretary Julie Jones also issued a statement. "His tragic death is a reminder that our state's uniformed men and women risk their lives every day in the pursuit of public safety."
Ramos joined the Department on August 2007 and worked at the South Florida Reception Center.
"As a member of the SFRC Correctional Emergency Response Team, Sgt. Ramos routinely went above and beyond the call of duty," Gov. Rick Scott said in a stement. "The State of Florida is truly grateful for his dedicated service to public safety."
Ramos is survived by his wife and their young daughter.
Funeral arrangements are pending.
