BUNNELL, Fla. — A firefighter/EMT candidate died Friday morning while participating in a pre-employment physical agility test with Flagler County Fire Rescue, according to the Bunnell Police Department.

Police said the candidate, 40-year-old Fendrick Gabaud from Ormond Beach, had complained of shortness of breath after completing the required test, which included climbing three stories of stairs with firefighting equipment. The test was conducted around 10 a.m. at the fire tower, located at 655 Justice Lane in Bunnell. 

Police said Gabaud had recently graduated from fire school and was seeking employment with fire rescue. He was in “good shape” and had no prior employment as a firefighter, police said.

Witnesses said Gabaud had completed the test within the allotted time. Police noted that weather conditions were “warm,” with temperatures reported around 85 degrees at the time of the test.

Paramedics on the scene immediately began rendering aid, but Gabaud became unresponsive. He was taken to AdventHealth Palm Coast, where he was later pronounced dead.

The Bunnell Police Department, State Fire Marshal’s Office and the Seventh District Medical Examiner’s Office are conducting an investigation. Investigators said there is no indication of foul play at this time. 

The official cause of death will be determined by the medical examiner.

“Our hearts go out to the family of this young man whose life was tragically cut short, as well as to the men and women of Flagler County Fire Rescue who stood beside him during his final moments,” Bunnell Police Chief David Brannon said. “This is a heartbreaking reminder of the risks faced by those who pursue a career in public safety. On behalf of the Bunnell Police Department, I extend our deepest sympathy to his loved ones and to our colleagues in the fire service.”