Malaysian student dies after 108kg barbell crushes his neck at the gym

He was a fitness enthusiast who frequented the gym five days a week.

But what was supposed to be one of his regular workout sessions cost him his life.

Malaysian student, Wang Zongren, had attempted to lift a 108kg barbell but it fell on his neck, causing his death.

According to China Press, the accident occurred at a Selangor fitness centre at about 8pm on Tuesday (Oct 3).

The 20-year-old was with friends at the time, one of whom suspected that Wang had lost control of the barbelll due to lack of strength, thus causing it to slip and crush his neck.

His friend added that there were five people at the gym during the freak accident, including Wang.

Three were in the prayer room while the friend himself went out for a smoke.

Wang was unconscious with the barbell on his neck by the time his friend returned.

The four friends called for help immediately and moved the barbell away together, China Press reported.

Wang used to weigh about 100kg but his weight dropped to about 80kg after he went to the gym regularly, the report added.

His friend told China Press that Wang has had "several years of fitness experience", so it was unlikely that his death was due to the improper use of equipment.

The deceased's brother, Zongyao, said he was a "filial and obedient child" who would give money to beggars and disabled people on the streets.

He also shared that his brother loved the arts and had an interest in singing.

Wang was a student at the Malaysian Institute of Art and had also worked part-time as a real estate agent.

China Press reported that Wang's family has since claimed his body, which will be cremated on Friday in his hometown of Batu Pahat, Johor.

Last month, an Australian teen died under similar circumstances.

Ben Shaw, 15, was crushed by weightlifting equipment after attempting to bench press about 100kg in a Brisbane gym, said Australian news outlet ABC.

ssandrea@sph.com.sg