Umpire John McSherry dies of a heart attack while working the Opening Day game between the Reds and Expos at Cincinnati’s Riverfront Stadium

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On April 1, 1996, MLB umpire John McSheery died of a heart attack while umpiring behind home plate on Opening Day at the Cincinnati Reds’ Riverfront Stadium; he was 51 years old at the time of his passing.

McSherry was just seven pitches into calling balls and strikes between the Reds and Expos before he called time and began walking toward the tunnel behind the field. He motioned for help before suddenly collapsing face-first near the entrance. Trainers, players, and medical personnel rushed to his aid and began CPR as paramedics arrived. He was transported to a nearby hospital but was pronounced dead less than an hour later at age 51.

The cause of death was ruled as sudden cardiac arrest, likely related to underlying heart issues. Reports later revealed that McSherry had been dealing with health concerns, including shortness of breath and a diagnosed cardiac arrhythmia.

The game was postponed after initial confusion about whether to continue, and the incident cast a somber tone over Opening Day across baseball. In the aftermath, McSherry’s death prompted renewed scrutiny of umpire health standards, particularly regarding fitness and cardiovascular screening.

McSherry was survived by his wife and children. His funeral Mass in the Bronx drew more than 1,000 attendees.

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