Knoxville police recruit dies during physical training session

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) - On Sunday morning, Knoxville Police Department Chief Paul Noel announced the death of Officer Wisbens Antoine, a member of the 2023-B Basic Recruit Class.

According to KPD, Antoine, 32, collapsed during a routine physical training session at the end of a mile-and-a-half run on Friday afternoon. KPD reports that the reasons for the collapse are still unknown. KPD also reports that training staff attempted CPR and other life-saving techniques, including using an AED device.

Antoine was taken to the UT Medical Center via AMR and admitted into the ICU late Friday night in critical condition, KPD reports. Late Saturday night, Anotine’s condition quickly worsened, and he passed away peacefully around 4 a.m. Sunday morning, according to KPD.

In September, Antoine joined the KPD in 2023 as a Public Safety Recruit and started the basic recruit academy. According to Chief Noel, Antoine took the oath to officially become a police officer from his hospital bed before he passed away. He was to be sworn in as a KPD officer alongside his 18 classmates on Monday, March 4.

KPD said a cruiser was placed at the front entrance of the Public Safety Complex in honor of Antoine.

Community members are invited to leave tributes in recognition of Antoine’s commitment to serving Knoxville and the KPD, the department said.

Additionally, KPD said a memorial fund has been set up for Antoine’s family. Information on how to donate is below.