MILWAUKEE — A runner died Sunday after being rushed to the hospital while participating in the Milwaukee Lakefront Half Marathon.
The Milwaukee County Medical Examiner's Office confirmed they were called after the runner was pronounced dead at a local hospital.
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The runner, who has been identified as John Meise, was taken to the hospital by ambulance from a part of the half marathon course along the Hoan Bridge. He was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at the hospital.
Witnesses saw Meise, 36, collapse to the ground, the medical examiner's office says. They say he had no medical medical history.
Family says this was Meise's first marathon, though he had been an avid runner for six years.
Meise leaves behind a wife and four children — 11-year-old Mason, 8-year-old Owne, 4-year-old Lucy and 1-year-old Isla. He's being remembered as the ultimate family man.
"He was the best dad in the world and he lived for his kids," Meise's wife Lauren said.
"The Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon extends its sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the half marathon participant who passed away following Sunday’s event," a spokesperson for the race said in a statement. "We are deeply saddened by this loss and are grateful to the medical personnel, first responders, volunteers and public safety partners who support the safety and well-being of participants throughout race weekend. The Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon maintains established medical and emergency-response protocols, developed in coordination with its medical and public safety partners, including on-course medical support, communications procedures and coordinated response planning. The safety of participants remains a central priority in the planning and operation of the event."
The medical examiner's officer is continuing to look into Meise's death.
Meise's family set up a GoFundMe fundraiser to help support his family during their unimaginable loss. You can find more information about the fundraiser by clicking HERE.
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