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Junior Bridgeman dies after suffering medical emergency during event in downtown Louisville

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WAVE) -Louisville philanthropist and billionaire businessman Junior Bridgeman has died after suffering a medical emergency while attending an event in downtown Louisville.

A WAVE News employee who was at the event on March 11 at the Galt House said Bridgeman, 71, grabbed his chest and said he thought he was having a heart attack. Medical personnel were called to the scene and the room was cleared.

Later in the day, the Al J. Schneider Company, which represents the Galt House, confirmed his passing and expressed their sympathies for the loss of the Louisville icon.

“Junior Bridgeman was an integral part of our community. From his athletic impact to his philanthropic efforts, he will be deeply missed,” said Lance George, Chief Marketing Officer. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Bridgeman family during this time.”

Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg released a statement as well following the passing of Bridgeman, saying:

“Today, we lost a kind, generous and groundbreaking legend. He was an All-American at UofL, an NBA All-Star, and a self-made billionaire. Yet, I will most remember Junior Bridgeman for his quiet, impactful assistance to others in need, his love for Doris and his entire family, and his never-ending support for our community. Junior made us all better people and Louisville a better city. Rachel and I send our love and prayers to the Bridgeman family. May Junior’s memory be a blessing.”

Bridgeman played basketball for the University of Louisville from 1972-1975 under coach Danny Crum. He went on to join the Milwaukee Bucks from 1975 to 1984.

After retiring from the NBA, Bridgeman returned to Louisville and invested in the fast-food franchise. He eventually owned over 100 Wendy’s and Chili’s restaurants across the country. Bridgeman has served on several of Louisville’s board chairs and is also a co-owner of Valhalla Golf Club.

In 2016, Forbes ranked Bridgeman the fourth-wealthiest retired athlete in the world, behind Arnold Palmer, David Beckham and Michael Jordan.

This story will be updated.