A community in Anthem, Arizona, is coming together to pay tribute to the late Detective Ryan So of the Scottsdale Police Department with a workout dedicated to his memory. Genesis Fitness is hosting a 'Hero WOD' (Workout of the Day) next Saturday, designed to commemorate the officer who lost his life in a tragic incident last year. According to ABC15 , the gym collaborated with one of So's close friends in creating the workout and will be raising funds for his surviving family members during the event.

Genesis gym owner Dawnylle Kohl expressed his admiration for Detective So, noting his significant presence in their community. "He was a staple here in our community, in our northwest community, as well as at my daughter's school. He was an off-duty officer, I got to know him there," Kohl revealed in a statement obtained by ABC15 . "Kind, kind human being. He would do anything for anyone and it's time for us to gather together and support his family and love on them." Other gyms in the Valley and around the nation are being encouraged to take part in remembering Detective So through the 'Hero WOD'.

The somber story behind the event was detailed in a recent investigation. According to a report by the Mesa Police Department’s Homicide Unit, which the Scottsdale police had requested to look into the incident, Detective So’s death occurred after the safety on a rifle was left off. The weapon fell out of a backpack, discharging when it hit the ground, resulting in So's fatal collapse. The investigation, outlined by KTAR News , clarifies that there was "no evidence of criminal negligence on the part of any parties" involved. Detective So had been aiding a fellow officer transfer equipment between vehicles when the incident happened.

The fitness challenge in honor of Detective So is not just about physical exertion, but also about solidarity in the face of loss. Chris Ellis, a close friend of So, spoke to the meaning of the event: "Ashley, Ryan's wife, and Ryan's three girls are going to be in attendance and doing the workout with everybody. I thought that was a cool way to honor him and his memory," Ellis told ABC15 . He emphasized the community's intent to "come together and really honor him in a way that we feel is fitting for him." Details and registration information for the event can be found on the Genesis Fitness website.