Superior Spring Trail Racer Cause of Death, Cardiac Arrest

UPDATE 6-27: The cause of death for Jon Mathson, 41, of Eagan, has been confirmed by the Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office, according to the Cook County Sheriff’s Office.

According to the report, Mathson died from a natural cardiac arrest during exertion due to atherosclerotic coronary artery disease, which is the hardening of the arteries and can create life-threatening blockages, as reported by WebMD.

The Medical Examiner reports Mathson had no known medical history.

ORIGINAL REPORT:

LUTSEN, Minn. – A 41-year-old male participant was unsuccessfully revived during the Superior Spring Trail Race on Saturday, May 20, according to the Cook County Sheriff’s Office.

Responders reported to a 911 call around 11 a.m. Saturday, stating that approximately three to four miles in from Caribou Highlands, a male runner had collapsed on the trail between Moose Mountain and Mystery Mountain, while running in the 25KM race.

A group of first responders performed CPR and worked to resuscitate the man. The efforts were unsuccessful and the man, who has been identified as Jon Mathson, 41, of Eagan, was pronounced

Photo: GoFundMe

dead on the scene.

The official cause of death is unknown at this time, an autopsy is pending.

“Our hearts go out to the family of Mr. Mathson, the Superior Spring Trail Race community, and our first responders for this shocking and difficult loss,” said Cook County Sheriff Pat Eliasen.

A GoFundMe page has been set up for his wife and son.

Mathson was a three-time finisher of the Superior Trail Race.