Olympic medalist Toshiaki Fushimi has died after a crash during a cycling race in Japan. He was 50 years old.
The accident occurred during the Matsusaka Keirin tournament on Saturday. Fushimi was competing when a collision involving other riders happened in front of him.
Video circulating on social media shows Fushimi, reportedly the rider in black, swerving to avoid the pileup.
However, he crashed into a safety barrier, suffering fractures to his cervical vertebrae and skull.
He was taken to a hospital but died the following day.
Hiroshi Kido, chairman of the Japan Keirin Association, expressed sorrow in a statement. "It is truly heartbreaking that he lost his life in an accident during a race.
We will reconfirm our safety measures and thoroughly ensure fair and safe races," Kido said.
Fushimi won a silver medal at the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens. He competed for Japan in the men's team sprint event.
