‘Super smart’ medical student, 21, died from ‘traumatic’ head injury moments after using weight machine in uni gym
A “SUPER smart” medical student died in his university gym moments after using a weight machine, his heartbroken family say.
Mohammed Farraj, 21, was working out at his university on October 16 when tragedy struck.
Emergency crews scrambled to the University of East Anglia’s Sportspark, in Norwich, following reports of a medical incident.
The medical student, from Stoke-on-Trent, had been using gym equipment when he sustained a head injury, Norfolk Police said.
The force is now investigating alongside the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
Mohammed sadly could not be saved and was pronounced dead at the scene.
A relative told the Mail: “It was a tragic accident and it was not a fault of the machine, from all we have been told.
“Mohammed was using a Smith machine when he suffered a head trauma.
“He had no underlying health issues. He was very fit and healthy, there was absolutely nothing wrong with him.”
Tributes have since been paid to “kind and caring” Mohammed.
His university football team wrote: “A dear friend, brother and son departed this world.
“Our best wishes and condolences go out to his family, friends and loved ones.
“Mohammed was someone who loved to stay fit and active, he was also an aspiring doctor.
“Mohammed was someone who represented all the university’s core values.
“Anyone who met Mohammed can vouch that he was kind, caring and a joy to be around.
“A minute’s silence was held at all of our games that took place on Saturday to pay our respect for Mohammed.”
The student union added: “We are deeply shocked and heartbroken by the incident that resulted in the loss of Mohammed Farraj, a valued member of our UAE community.
“This is a tragedy and our thoughts and condolences are with their family, friends and loved ones during this difficult time.”
Mohammed’s medical school said: “You had the potential to make a great doctor… thinking of you, your family and friends.”
A fundraiser has been set up in Mohammed’s name to help raise money for Human Appeal to build water wells.
A Norfolk Police spokesman said at the time: “Emergency services were called to the Sportspark gym shortly after 7pm following reports of a medical incident involving a man who had been using gym equipment.”
“A man, aged in his 20s, was treated by paramedics but was sadly pronounced dead at the scene. His family have been informed.
“The area was evacuated while emergency services provided medical treatment.
“A police cordon was in place and the gym will remain closed while enquiries are carried out to establish the circumstances surrounding the death, which is being treated as unexplained but not suspicious.”