Heat Stroke blamed in death of former NY Giants offensive lineman

A 32-year-old former New York Giants offensive lineman and Super Bowl winner died of heat stroke after working outside in triple-digit temperatures in his native Arkansas, officials said Friday.

Mitch Petrus, who played three seasons in the NFL, was pronounced dead at 10:45 p.m. Thursday at Baptist Health Medical Center in North Little Rock, according to Pulaski County Coroner Gerone Hobbs.

The high temperature in Little Rock on Thursday was 92 degrees, with a heat index of 103 degrees, as the city like much of the nation is struggling through a brutal — and now deadly — heat wave.

“He was working at his family shop, outside … and suffered heat stroke,” Hobbs said. “He was drinking water but not enough electrolytes.”

The 6-foot-2, 350-pound Petrus did not appear to have any serious pre-existing medical condition that contributed to his heat-stroke death, according to Hobbs.

Heat stroke is a serious, life-threatening condition characterized by symptoms that include a body temperature higher than 103 degrees Farenheit; red, hot and dry skin with no sweating; a rapid, strong pulse; and a throbbing headache.

The Lonoke County Sheriff’s Department received a call for a medical emergency at the family’s towing business, X-Hog Wrecker and Roadside, at 6:45 p.m. on Thursday, authorities said.

What is Heat Stroke?

Heat stroke is the most serious form of heat injury and is considered a medical emergency. If you suspect that someone has heat stroke — also known as sunstroke — call 911 immediately and give first aid until paramedics arrive.

Heat stroke can kill or cause damage to the brain and other internal organs. Although heat stroke mainly affects people over age 50, it also takes a toll on healthy young athletes.

Heat stroke often occurs as a progression from milder heat-related illnesses such as heat cramps, heat syncope (fainting), and heat exhaustion. But it can strike even if you have no previous signs of heat injury.

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