UPPER DARBY, Pa. (FOX 29) - An athletic trainer at Upper Darby High School died during the Broad Street Run on Sunday, the school district announced Monday.
Brian Smart reportedly passed away after suffering a heart attack.
"It is with a heavy heart that we announce that, during yesterday's Broad Street Run, UDHS athletic trainer Brian Smart suffered a heart attack and passed away," the district said in a statement.
The district also shared a note from Smart's father to its athletic director:
"Thank you very much for such kind words and your prayers. The world certainly lost a good one yesterday… Brian really enjoyed working in UD…working with you and the students of Upper Darby."
"It is obvious that Brian was beloved by the students that he worked with, and we've been receiving messages all morning about his passing," the district added.
The city issued the following statement from Mayor Kenney and Race Director Leo Dignam:
"The City of Philadelphia and Blue Cross Broad Street Run organizers extend our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Brian Smart, a race participant who lost his life yesterday. We are deeply saddened by this tragic event, and our thoughts are with his loved ones. Brian suffered a medical emergency and was immediately transported to the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. We are grateful to our first responders and the hospital staff who tried valiantly to save his life, and those who were there to aid and comfort his family. The entire city stands with Brian's family and friends in the wake of their loss."
Information regarding funeral services for Smart has yet to be announced.