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Queensland teen dies after being trapped under gym equipment

A 15-year-old boy who was critically injured when he was pinned by weightlifting equipment while working out at a Brisbane gym has died.

Ben Shaw's neck was reportedly crushed under a 98kg bar for at least half an hour last Tuesday at the Pine Rivers PCYC.

He was taken to Lady Cilento Children's Hospital where he was placed on life support, but died there on Saturday, his football club said on Facebook.

Ben Shaw was bench-pressing nearly 100kg. Source: 7 News
Ben Shaw was bench-pressing nearly 100kg. Source: 7 News

Sharon Hickey, president of the Pine Central Holy Spirit Hornets rugby league club, passed on the club's condolences to the Shaw family.

"Yesterday afternoon they lost their beautiful Ben and has (sic) been able to leave a legacy by donating his tissue and organs to enable recipients have their lives saved and changed forever as a result," she said in the post.

Club staff administered first aid before the 15-year-old was rushed to hospital.

He was taken to Lady Cilento Children's Hospital where he was placed on life support. Source: 7 News
He was taken to Lady Cilento Children's Hospital where he was placed on life support. Source: 7 News

PCYC Queensland chief Phil Schultz said last week the organisation was "deeply saddened" by the incident.

"Our thoughts are with the family and friends of this teenager during this difficult time," he said.

Worksafe Queensland has launched an investigation and the Pine Rivers PCYC has been closed until further notice.

The incident happened at the Pine Rivers PCYC. Source: 7 News
The incident happened at the Pine Rivers PCYC. Source: 7 News
Gym-goers were turned away as investigations continue. Source: 7 News
Gym-goers were turned away as investigations continue. Source: 7 News