Family of Athlete Who Died After Competing in Galveston Ironman Triathlon Launches Independent Investigation into Emergency Response
18 Abril 2024 - 1:28PM
Business Wire
Moye Law Firm: Family members say medical
treatment was delayed
The family of a Canadian man who died after competing in the
Galveston Ironman Triathlon has launched its own investigation into
the emergency response.
Jean-Francois Alain, 49, of Quebec was competing in the swimming
portion of the April 7 race when he signaled for support from the
nearest lifeguard. He was taken to The University of Texas Medical
Branch in Galveston but died less than 24 hours later.
Family members are now investigating what happened in the
critical minutes between Mr. Alain’s signal for help and his
arrival at the hospital. They are also looking into eyewitness
accounts that emergency crews encountered equipment issues that may
have delayed Mr. Alain’s medical treatment.
“It is vital that we have a full understanding of what happened
that day,” said Will Moye, attorney for Mr. Alain’s family. “What
we do know is that a race of this magnitude should have
infrastructure in place to quickly respond to any emergency.”
Mr. Alain was competing in Galveston as part of his training for
a full Ironman competition in the Canary Islands on May 24. An
experienced athlete, the father of two had already competed in two
other triathlons and had run multiple marathons.
“We are shocked and heartbroken. Jean-Francois was an
exceptional human being. He was energetic, always positive, always
there for his family, friends and colleagues. But most of all, he
was the pillar of our family,” said Veronique Tremblay, Mr. Alain’s
wife. “Everything has changed for us. I’ve lost my love, my best
friend, and our sons have lost their father and number one
supporter.”
Family members say Mr. Alain was in the best shape of his life
and had no previous health issues.
“While we know this investigation cannot bring him back, we want
to do everything we can to make sure this never happens to another
person,” said Ms. Tremblay.
The Galveston County Medical Examiner has conducted an autopsy,
the results of which have not yet been released.
Mr. Alain’s family is encouraging anyone who witnessed the
events of that day to email ironmanwitness@moyefirm.com.
About Will Moye
Moye Law Firm founder Will Moye is a seasoned litigator who
fights for Texas families that have suffered catastrophic personal
injuries. Previously recognized as a leading defense litigator for
corporate America and its multinational insurers, Mr. Moye now uses
his expertise to handle “the worst of the worst” personal injury
cases. His deep understanding of how catastrophic cases are
investigated and defended, as well as his experience with nearly
all domestic and international insurers, make him the attorney you
want by your side in the courtroom.
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April Arias 800-559-4534 april@androvett.com