Bucknell University student Rachel Apa, 24, died during the New York City Marathon on November 3, 2026, approximately two miles from the finish line. The incident occurred during what was reported to be her first marathon race.
Apa was a student at Bucknell University in Pennsylvania. Emergency responders attended to her on the course, but she could not be revived. The exact cause of death has not been publicly disclosed.
The New York City Marathon, one of the world's major marathon events, draws tens of thousands of participants annually. Race organizers and medical teams have established protocols for runner safety along the 26.2-mile course through the city's five boroughs.
Bucknell University released a statement expressing condolences to Apa's family, friends, and the campus community. The university said counseling services would be available for students and staff affected by the loss.
