Autopsy: Vermont State Trooper Died of Heat Exhaustion from Exercise

A Vermont State Trooper who collapsed last week on the job died from heat stroke, according to a medical examiner's report.

Trooper Kyle Young, 28, was training with other officers last Thursday in Jericho when he suffered what was described as a "medical event." He was later pronounced dead at the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington.

According to the informational death certificate filed by the office of Vermont's chief medical examiner, Young died in minutes after over-exerting himself through strenuous physical activity in high heat.

Young was participating in tryouts for the Vermont State Police Tactical Services Unit. The training exercises took place outdoors at the Ethan Allen Firing Range in Jericho, state police said. 

Last week, Matt Birmingham, the commander of the Vermont State Police, expressed sympathies to Young's family, and remembered him as a dedicated officer and father.

"Now and in the coming days, I will focus solely on supporting Kyle's family, and our Vermont State Police family, as we struggle to come to grips with this tragic loss of a father, son, and brother trooper," Birmingham said in a written statement Friday.

Vermont Public Safety Commissioner Keith Flynn said Monday that he has ordered a complete administrative review of the application processes and testing requirements for all Vermont State Police Special Purpose Teams.

"Our thoughts continue to be with Trooper Young and his family," Flynn said.

Young was originally from Watertown, New York. He was returned there for cremation, according to his death certificate.

Calling hours are Tuesday, Sept. 22, from 3 to 7 p.m. at Cummings Funeral Home in Watertown. The funeral will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 23 at 1 p.m. at the Immaculate Conception Church in Brownville, New York.