Fort Myers Fire recruit dies following physical fitness test [Video]

FORT MYERS, Fla. — The Fort Myers Fire Department announced on Wednesday that a recruit has died after completing his physical assessment and evaluation.

At a press conference on Wednesday, Chief Tracy McMillion said the department is experiencing “heavy hearts” in response to the loss of Nathaniel Lee Wilcox, 22, from Cutler Bay, Florida.

Chief McMillion says Wilcox’s family wants the community to know more about their loved one – sharing that he played college football.

The South Carolina State Bulldogs posted the following on their Facebook page:

Fort Myers Fire says the department will declare Wilcox an honorary firefighter.

The department has shared Wilcox’s applicant video with FOX 4. You can see it below:

Fort Myers Fire shares applicant’s video following his death

FOX 4’s Fort Myers Community Correspondent Miyoshi Price attended the department’s physical assessments on Tuesday.

In addition, his family will receive a helmet and jacket.

Wilcox’s family has requested an autopsy.

This is a developing story.