A 24-year-old recruit with the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources has died following a medical emergency during a training exercise. William Bailey, originally from Alabama and a graduate of Eastern Kentucky University, was undergoing training at the Game Warden Academy in Barren County when the incident occurred at approximately 1:13 p.m. on Friday.

According to a statement from the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife, Bailey, who was also a former football player EKU, experienced a medical episode during the training. Officers on site provided immediate assistance until emergency medical services arrived. He was subsequently transported to T.J. Samson Community Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The Kentucky State Police have opened an investigation into the incident at the request of the fish and wildlife department. Bailey's passing has deeply affected his peers and the community alike, with the Department of Fish and Wildlife highlighting his dedication and commitment to becoming a game warden.

Following the tragic event, Bailey's body was moved from Louisville to Huntsville on Sunday. Authorities in Madison County provided an escort for the transfer to Laughlin Funeral Home in Huntsville as a mark of respect for the fallen recruit.