Blake Joseph Groulx Death: Minneapolis Running Community Mourns Tragic Loss of 27-Year-Old Runner
Blake Joseph Groulx, a 27-year-old resident of Minneapolis, tragically passed away after collapsing during the City of Lakes Half Marathon on Sunday morning, September 8, 2024. The running community and all who participated in the event are left mourning the unexpected loss of Groulx, a fellow participant whose tragic death has deeply impacted those who were present.
According to the Hennepin County Medical Examiner’s Office, Groulx fell while running near West Bde Maka Ska Parkway, just south of W. Lake Street, hitting his head on the curb. Witnesses, including two fellow race participants, reported that Groulx appeared to stumble before collapsing.
They immediately rushed to his aid, along with several other bystanders who were medical professionals—a doctor, an emergency room nurse, and a physician assistant. Initially, Groulx was breathing and had a pulse, but after he stopped breathing, CPR was administered.
Additional runners, including emergency room nurses, also stopped to assist in the lifesaving efforts. Groulx was then transported to Abbott Northwestern Hospital by ambulance, but tragically, he was pronounced dead upon arrival.
The cause of death has yet to be determined, and the medical examiner’s office has not released further details. The half-marathon, which is part of an annual 13.1-mile event around Lakes Harriet and Bde Maka Ska, is sponsored by the charitable organization Run Minnesota.
Sarah Ahlers McInerney, the executive director of Run Minnesota, confirmed Groulx’s hospitalization but did not provide further comment. The running community is in shock and mourning the loss of one of their own, who was taken from them far too soon.
As news of Groulx’s passing spread, fellow runners and community members took to social media to express their condolences and share their memories of him. Many described him as a kind and dedicated runner who was always willing to lend a helping hand.
The City of Lakes Half Marathon is a beloved event in the Minneapolis running community, and Groulx’s death has cast a pall over the race. Runners and volunteers are struggling to come to terms with the loss of one of their own, and the event will likely never be the same.
In the days and weeks ahead
