A 24-year-old woman has died after collapsing during the final stretch of the New York City Marathon, just about two miles before reaching the finish line.
The deceased, identified as Rachel Apa, from Lewisberry, Pennsylvania, reportedly suffered a medical emergency near mile marker 24 in Central Park during Sunday’s race. A passerby attempted to revive her through cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) before emergency medical responders arrived.
According to a statement from the New York Police Department, Apa was rushed to hospital in critical condition. However, she died later that night.
Her father, Steve Apa, said his daughter had been in excellent physical condition before taking part in the competition, describing her as being in “perfect health, perfect shape”.
He attributed her death to rhabdomyolysis, a potentially life-threatening medical condition that occurs when damaged muscle tissue breaks down and releases harmful substances into the bloodstream, potentially causing severe complications.
Apa was taking part in her first-ever marathon after months of preparation. She joined the race as a member of the Parkinson’s Foundation Champions team, using the event to raise funds and pay tribute to her grandfather, who was living with Parkinson’s disease.
Although she had considerable experience as an athlete, the New York City Marathon marked her first attempt at completing the demanding 26.2-mile race.
Meanwhile, the city’s medical examiner is continuing investigations to establish the official cause of death.
