Okla. Police Recruit Dies after Medical Emergency During Training

An Oklahoma police recruit died Wednesday after suffering a medical emergency during training.

At the end of the second day of training at the academy, Franklin Leinen, a 40-year-old recruit with the Broken Arrow Police Department, was participating in a physical training program when the emergency occurred, KOKI-TV reports. Instructors performed lifesaving measures, and Leinen was rushed to hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

"While words cannot ease the pain of this loss, our department, alongside the City of Broken Arrow, stands united in honoring the recruit's memory and service," the department stated in a press release announcing Leinen's death. "We will continue to support the recruit's family and all who are grieving. This tragic event reminds us of the strength of our community and the importance of standing together in difficult times."

Chaplains, peer support staff and the department’s Honor Guard will provide assistance to the recruit’s family, as well as classmates, and colleagues, according to the agency.

The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation will head up the investigation into the circumstances of the death.

"All of our recruits go through a comprehensive screening process that involves a full medical evaluation to ensure that they are fit to participate in the academy," Chief Lance Arnold told KOKI.