Student Dies After Collapsing at NYC Marathon
Charleston Southern University student Rachel Apa, 24, died after collapsing about two miles from the New York City Marathon finish line.
Updated on Nov. 5, 2026 in Running
Rachel Apa, a 24-year-old Charleston Southern University student, collapsed on Sunday, November 1, during the New York City Marathon and died after six hours of medical treatment. Her father said she died from rhabdomyolysis.
Why it matters
Rhabdomyolysis is a rare muscle condition that releases harmful substances into the bloodstream and can result from overexertion, trauma, medications, or an underlying health condition. The case highlights the serious risks endurance athletes can face during long-distance races, even among young runners.
The reported figures are Apa's age of 24 and a six-hour period of medical treatment after she collapsed roughly two miles from the finish line. The cause of death is attributed to her father's account, and the specific triggers of her rhabdomyolysis remain unstated.
The players
Rachel Apa
A 24-year-old Charleston Southern University student who collapsed during the New York City Marathon while running in memory of her grandfather.
Charleston Southern University
A private Christian university in North Charleston, South Carolina, where Apa was a student.
Dr. Michael Mercer
A Charleston Southern University professor who taught Apa this semester and was in Tennessee when he learned of her death.
The details
Apa was running in honor of her late grandfather and to raise awareness for Parkinson's disease when she collapsed. Rhabdomyolysis can result from overexertion, trauma, medications, or an underlying health condition, though the specific cause in her case has not been detailed.
Timeline
Sunday, November 1: Rachel Apa collapses during the New York City Marathon.
Six hours later: Apa dies after doctors attempt to save her life.
Season Trajectory
Exertional rhabdomyolysis is a documented risk for endurance athletes pushing through long races, and cases like Apa's raise questions about race-day medical screening. The incident adds to ongoing discussion within running circles about how marathon organizers monitor participants on course.
Runners planning long-distance events should be aware that rhabdomyolysis can strike during strenuous races, making it worth discussing hydration, pacing, and any pre-existing conditions with a physician before race day. The case is a reminder that medical warning signs during a marathon should be taken seriously.
The takeaway
Rhabdomyolysis can affect endurance athletes even when they appear healthy, so listening to warning signs such as severe muscle pain or unusual fatigue during long runs is important. Consulting a doctor about personal risk factors before marathon training can help reduce danger.
Further reading
For more on endurance racing and runner health, explore the Running section.
