An NYC Marathon runner died suddenly at 24. Her family says the cause was rhabdomyolysis, a rare risk even for fit athletes.

Rachel Apa, a 24-year-old experienced D1 field hockey athlete, died after collapsing near mile 24 of the New York City Marathon on Sunday, and her family said the cause was rhabdomyolysis, a rare exercise-induced condition in which muscle tissue breaks down and releases compounds that can overwhelm the kidneys. The New York Road Runners, the marathon's organizer, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Rhabdomyolysis is diagnosed via blood test and treated with IV fluids, and research suggests about 26,000 US cases are reported annually, with risks heightened by heat, dehydration and prolonged high-intensity exertion. The case highlights a rare but life-threatening risk for endurance athletes and raises questions about race-day medical protocols and athlete education.