Rachel Apa, a 24-year-old runner from Bucknell University, collapsed and died during the New York City Marathon on Tuesday, just two miles short of the finish line. The incident occurred during her first marathon race, according to reports from In Touch Weekly.
Apa was participating in the 2026 NYC Marathon when she suffered a medical emergency near the 24-mile mark. Emergency responders attended to her immediately, but she was pronounced dead at the scene. The exact cause of death has not been disclosed.
The marathon community and Bucknell University have expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the young athlete. Apa was remembered as a dedicated student-athlete with a promising future in distance running.
