Indianapolis authorities are investigating a tragic and unusual death after 39-year-old Derek Sink was discovered dead in a tanning bed at a Planet Fitness gym. According to the Marion County Coroner’s Office (MCCO), Sink’s body was found on the morning of November 11, three days after he initially entered the facility on November 8.
“This remains an ongoing death investigation,” an MCCO spokesperson confirmed, adding that the cause of death is yet to be determined. Sink’s family, who spoke to local news outlet WTHR, revealed that because Sink wore an ankle monitor, authorities were able to confirm he hadn’t left the gym after arriving.
On November 10, two days after his visit to the gym, Sink’s family reported him missing. Despite concerns raised by family and friends, his body remained undiscovered at the gym until a strong odor alerted others.
Elizabeth Len, a local woman who was at the Planet Fitness on November 11, recalled smelling something unusual as she entered the facility. She told WTHR, “The tanning bed has a door, I believe, but still, why are we not concerned that the tanning bed has been closed for three days, potentially?”
In the wake of this incident, Planet Fitness issued a statement expressing condolences and emphasizing their commitment to member safety. “We were deeply saddened by the passing of one of our members, and the franchise owner is working with the local authorities in their investigation,” stated McCall Gosselin, Planet Fitness’ chief corporate affairs officer.
She added, “At Planet Fitness, we have robust operational brand protocols in place, as the safety and well-being of our members is our top priority. We are working closely with our local franchisee to ensure they are upholding those brand protocols.”
As police and the MCCO continue their investigation, questions remain about how Sink’s body went unnoticed for so long. The coroner’s office will perform further testing to establish both the manner and cause of his death.
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This unusual case has raised concerns over gym protocols and member safety. Authorities are expected to release more information once the investigation concludes.