CFD Diver Died Of Condition That Caused Heart Failure: Officials

CHICAGO, IL — The cause of death has been announced for a Chicago Fire Department diver who died during a rescue attempt during the Memorial Day weekend. Juan Bucio, 46, died of a rare heart condition called lymphocytic myocarditis, the Cook County Medical Examiner's Office said. His death has been ruled an accident.

His condition caused asphyxia from the depletion of air from his diving tank, authorities said.

Bucio was a father of two sons and a 15-year veteran of the department. He was pronounced dead at Stroger Hospital after he was separated from his partner in the Chicago River near the 2600 block of South Ashland Avenue, officials said. Bucio was part of a team searching the south branch of the river for 28-year-old Alberto Lopez, who had fallen off a boat into the river, officials said.

Bucio joined the department in 2003 and had been a diver since 2007, officials said. Prior to joining CFD, Bucio was a Chicago police officer from 2000-2003, police confirmed. His sister is a Chicago police officer and his brother is a Chicago firefighter.

Bucio was an excellent swimmer and diver, and was calm under pressure, his colleagues said. He was a former lifeguard for the Chicago Park District and was a team player who always pushed others to be their best, the department said.

Bucio is survived by his wife and two sons.

Top image via Chicago Fire Department