University of East Anglia student who died at academy named

A university student who died following an incident at a gym has been identified locally as Mohammed Farraj.

Emergency services were called to the University of East Anglia Sportspark in Norwich at around 7pm (BST) following reports of a medical incident.

Norfolk police said a 20-year-old man, who was wearing exercise equipment, was pronounced dead at the scene. It is investigating the incident in conjunction with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

A university spokesperson confirmed that one student had died and the site would remain closed.

“Emergency services were called to the Sportspark gym shortly after 7pm following reports of a medical incident involving a man wearing gym equipment,” the police spokesperson said in a statement.

“A man, aged 20, was treated by paramedics but was unfortunately pronounced dead at the scene.

“The area was evacuated while emergency services provided medical treatment.

“There is a police cordon in place and the gym will remain closed whilst investigations are carried out into the circumstances of the death, which is being treated as unexplained but not suspicious.”

The university told the BBC it was “providing support to staff” and that the Sportspark remained closed.

The UEA Students’ Union said it was “deeply shocked and heartbroken” and that its thoughts and condolences are with Mr Farraj’s family, friends and loved ones.

It encouraged people to check in on friends and colleagues who could be affected by the incident and said its student services team was also available for support.

Molly Walker, a first-year medical student, said her classmates were “shocked and saddened” by the death.

“It’s horrible, they were so young and clearly had a bright future coming here, so it’s just tragic,” the 19-year-old said.

“Everyone is really upset about this, it’s not a nice thing that happened on our campus.”

Neil Tosdevin, who works at the university, said it was “shocking” to hear about the incident.

“I go to the gym and see students using it all the time; This is very sad,” he added.

Harry Darlington, 28, said: “It’s really scary to realize someone has died in the gym. It’s really horrible.”

Footage showed a large number of emergency service vehicles, including a forensic van, at the scene.

The HSE confirmed it was making “initial inquiries” and assisting Norfolk Police’s investigation.

The East of England Ambulance Service has been approached for comment.