Charleston Southern student dies after collapsing near NYC marathon finish

Charleston Southern University is mourning the loss of Rachel Apa, a 24-year-old student who passed away after collapsing while running the New York City Marathon on November 1, 2026, the Post and Courier reported.

According to ABC News 4 WCIV, Apa collapsed about two miles from the marathon finish line. She was running to honor her late grandfather and to raise awareness for Parkinson’s disease. Despite six hours of medical efforts, she died.

Apa’s father said she died from rhabdomyolysis, a rare muscle condition that releases harmful substances into the bloodstream. Medical experts explained that rhabdomyolysis can be triggered by overexertion, trauma, medications, or underlying health issues, and can occur randomly.

Dr. Michael Mercer, a Charleston Southern University professor who taught Apa, described her as friendly and a natural leader. He expressed difficulty processing the news while away with friends in Tennessee.

Dr. Kenneth Perry, assistant medical director at the Trident Emergency Department, noted that rhabdomyolysis can happen after a triggering event and is not an inherent condition, meaning anyone could potentially develop it after certain circumstances.