Family of Athlete Who Died After Competing in Galveston Ironman Triathlon Launches Independent Investigation into Emergency Response

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 [email protected].

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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