The Cleveland Police Department (CPD) has reported that Cortez Smith, a recruit, passed away following a medical incident that occurred during a fitness test. According to the statement, Smith experienced a medical issue while in the middle of the last physical agility test.
According to the announcement, Smith lost consciousness after being brought to the hospital on Friday. WOIO reports that the recruit was declared deceased on Saturday, one day after the incident.
READ ALSO: Former Denver police recruit sues force after losing both legs in academy’s hazing ritual
RELATED STORIES
Cleveland Police Chief Dorothy A. Todd said, “We are all deeply affected by this incident. As we navigate this uncertain and emotional time, I ask that you keep Recruit Smith and his family in your thoughts. Please also offer your support to his fellow recruits and to one another.”
Cleveland Mayor Justin M. Bibb also reacted to the unfortunate news, saying, “I am heartbroken to hear of the unexpected passing of one of our dedicated police academy recruits, Cortez Smith. This tragic loss leaves an unforgettable mark on our community and serves as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by those who choose to serve and protect. This is more than a tragedy—it’s a profound loss to our city and to all who serve. We stand with the recruit’s family, his academy class, and fellow officers, and we carry his memory with honor. Now more than ever, we must uplift and support all of our first responders—through compassion, unity, and unwavering commitment. Their sacrifices deserve nothing less.”
According to a Facebook post, Cortez previously served at the Reservoir Police Department, which shared the following statement: “We are heartbroken to share the passing of our brother in blue, Cortez Smith. Cortez was more than just a fellow officer—he was family. He always had a smile on his face and a way of keeping us all laughing during his time at the Reservoir Police Department. Even after he left to continue advancing in his career, he remained a part of our close-knit family. Rest in peace, brother. You will always be remembered, and you will always be missed.”
“It’s truly a shame to lose Cortez not just from a police standpoint, but from a human standpoint,” Smith’s childhood friend Darrian Hyre said. “You don’t get many people like that anymore that are just genuinely wished the best for you, they love you, really put their self out there, kind of show their heart on their sleeve.”
