Rachel Apa dies during New York City Marathon

Rachel Apa, a 24-year-old former NCAA Division I field hockey athlete from Lewisberry, Pennsylvania, died after collapsing during the New York City Marathon on November 1. She collapsed approximately two miles from the finish line in Central Park.

While the city medical examiner's office stated the cause of death was under investigation, Apa's father, Steve Apa, told media outlets that doctors identified rhabdomyolysis as the cause. This condition involves the rapid breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue, which releases proteins and electrolytes into the bloodstream, potentially leading to kidney damage, electrolyte imbalances, and fatal heart issues.

Apa was participating in the race to raise funds for Parkinson's disease research in memory of her grandfather. Witnesses and medical staff attempted resuscitation at the scene using CPR and an automated external defibrillator before she was transported to Mount Sinai Hospital, where she passed away after several hours of treatment.