We have often heard debates about the safety associated with tanning beds. For one man in Indianapolis, however, getting in a tanning bed proved to be a bad decision.
That man, Derek Sink was found inside of a tanning bed at a Planet Fitness gym dead, three days after he had entered the establishment. When the Hardegan Street location opened its doors on Monday, November 11, they discovered his body.
The 39-year-old man had been reported missing by his family on Sunday, November 10. They spoke to the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department and said that Derek had gotten into a tanning bed at the gym on Friday. Three days later, they found him after entering the building.
One customer who was at the facility on Monday, Elizabeth Len said that a rancid odor could be detected before they found the body.
She asked the question: “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?”
According to the family, Derek had a drug problem and there was an unofficial report that a needle was found at the facility. A relative had also mentioned that he had an ankle monitor and the police were able to locate where he’d been.
Planet Fitness has offered its condolences to the family and friends after the man’s death. They also spoke about their determination to protect gym members.
The chief corporate affairs officer of Planet Fitness, McCall Gosselin said in a statement: “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.
“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.”
One report states that a sign was placed on the door of the gymnasium to let members know that tanning beds were currently not available.
As of now, the exact manner and cause of death have not been identified, although there is an ongoing investigation.
