Ohio PD academy recruit dies after medical emergency during agility test

Cleveland Police Academy Recruit Cortez Smith suffered a medical emergency during physical agility training; he was transported to a hospital, where he died a day later

June 23, 2025 11:29 AM

By Kaylee Remington
cleveland.com

CLEVELAND, Ohio — The Cleveland Division of Police is mourning the unexpected loss of recruit Cortez Smith, who died Saturday following a medical emergency during a routine physical agility test the day before, the department said.

According to police officials, the incident occurred on Friday during the final fitness portion of training for Academy Class #158. Emergency aid was immediately provided, and Smith was taken to a local hospital, police said.

Despite the efforts of medical personnel, his condition worsened rapidly, and he was pronounced dead Saturday, police said.

“We are all deeply affected by this incident,” Cleveland Police Chief Dorothy A. Todd said in a statement.

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She expressed condolences to Smith’s family and urged fellow recruits and officers to support one another through the grief.

Mayor Justin Bibb released a statement, calling the recruit’s death “a profound loss to our city” and emphasizing the dedication and sacrifice of those who choose careers in public service.

“We carry his memory with honor,” Bibb said.

The police department is asking for privacy on behalf of Smith’s family during this difficult time, while the community and department continue to process the loss. No additional information has been released regarding the specific cause of his death, police said.

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