Francis ‘Fran’ Crippen, an American open water swimmer, died during the World Cup 10km Marathon Swimming event held in United Arab Emirates on Saturday.

Crippen, 26-years old, won the bronze medal for the 2009 world championship 10km event that took place in Rome. He also won the bronze medal for the 5km world open water championships held in Canada just this year.

According to the world governing body FINA, the cause of his death is still under investigation. However, along with entire aquatic community, they address their deepest and sincere condolences to the family, friends, as well as the U.S. Aquatic Sports and USA Swimming family of Francis Crippen.

Crippen had won two titles in the U.S for the 800m freestyle pool competition before he had switched to open water competitions in the year 2006. He died during the last leg of the World Cup event.

Before he died, he posted in his Facebook account on Thursday, saying that he was in Dubai for the final World Cup of the season. He was hoping to go to Italy after the World Cup event for a vacation.

Crippen came from a family that is famous in the swimming world. He was aspiring to be the first U.S medallist in the Olympic Games open water swimming competition in 2012.

In a statement given by the United States Olympic Committee, they were saddened to learn about Crippen’s death. However, they will keep the outstanding young athlete and his family in their thoughts and prayers.