Bunnel – Austin Ross, 26, of Palm Coast, died Monday while completing the physical demanding portion of the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office deputy recruitment program. He collapsed while trying to become an MP and later died.
Ross has lived in Palm Coast since 2021 after working at Palm Coast Ford. He reportedly chose to pursue a career in law enforcement as a personal decision. Before he moved to Palm Coast, he lived in Maryland and West Virginia.
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The test that may have caused Ross’ death was an eight-step course that measures a recruit’s ability to withstand the physical demands of the job. Participants were asked to sign a waiver acknowledging the risk of being tested, which Ross likely did.
At one point during the procedure, Ross reportedly fell to the ground, gasping for breath. Reports about the incident suggest that he was overweight, but it is unclear whether that contributed to his tragic medical crisis. He said he did not lose consciousness when he fell.
Ross was given water and then CPR was performed by police and paramedics who responded to the scene. He reportedly still had a pulse when he was taken to nearby AdventHealth Palm Coast, but died at some point after being taken to the hospital. Other applicants were informed by FCSO of what happened.
As of Tuesday evening, this story was still developing. More details will be added as they become available.
