Ronald Donat’s longtime dream of becoming a police officer was in jeopardy. The 41-year-old struggled to stand after completing a flurry of pushups, sprints and pullups in the notoriously grueling start of physical training that recruits call “Hell Day.” “You are dead!” classmates recall a sergeant berating Donat, ordering him to sit on concrete at […]
At least 29 police recruits have died in the U.S. during training over the past decade, primarily from exertion, dehydration, heat stroke, and conditions exacerbated by intense physical demands, often on the first day. Black recruits, who make up nearly 60% of fatalities, are disproportionately affected, linked to higher prevalence of sickle cell trait, which can be life-threatening under extreme exertion. Experts advocate for improved screening, health education, and safer training practices to prevent such deaths. Some jurisdictions have implemented reforms, but broader changes are needed.
