New York City Marathon runner tragically dies at 24 after Central Park collapse

The New York City Marathon is one of the biggest public running spectacles in the world, but the 2026 race featured a tragedy with over 60,000 competitors pacing New York’s streets.

Rachel Apa, 24, tragically passed away while running her first NYC Marathon in honor of her late grandfather. The runner was believed to be in good health prior to the race, but Apa was pronounced dead after suffering rhabdomyolysis, a condition that sees muscles break down rapidly.

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The New York Times spoke with Apa’s father, Steve, who was tracking his daughter’s run throughout New York City. He told the outlet that Rachel began complaining of severe pain during Mile 18 of the run.

However, Apa ultimately collapsed in Central Park around Mile 24, nearly two miles prior to finishing the race. She was taken to Mount Sinai Hospital on Sunday night before being ruled dead.

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NYC Marathon ends with tragedy