Hannah Rapp, a rising professional boxer who recently challenged for the WBC women's featherweight championship, has died after being struck by a vehicle while riding her bicycle in Brazos County, Texas. She was 26.

Authorities say the crash was not a routine traffic accident, and a 31-year-old man has been arrested and charged with manslaughter following an investigation into the fatal incident.

Professional Boxer has Fatal Collision

According to the Brazos County Sheriff's Office, deputies responded to the 23000 block of FM 159 on the morning of July 18 after receiving reports of a crash involving a vehicle and a bicyclist.

First responders treated Rapp at the scene before transporting her to a nearby hospital, where she later died from her injuries.

Investigators allege the driver, identified as Charles Medina, passed two cyclists before stopping, shifting into reverse and striking Rapp. Medina was arrested at the scene and later charged with manslaughter. His bond was set at $250,000.

Investigators have said the incident remains under investigation as detectives continue gathering evidence.

Driver's Criminal History Draws Attention

Court records indicate this was reportedly the 13th time Medina had been booked into the Brazos County jail since 2012.

According to the information released, his previous arrests and charges have included reckless driving, evading arrest, resisting arrest, criminal mischief, hit-and-run, deadly conduct, speeding, escape from custody and driving with an expired license.

Those prior arrests do not determine guilt in the current case but have drawn public attention following the fatal collision.

Death of Professional Boxer Witnessed by Boyfriend

Investigators interviewed a witness identified as Rapp's boyfriend, who was riding alongside her at the time of the crash.

According to investigators, he told deputies that the vehicle sped past them with very little clearance—about a foot away. He said he raised his hands and shouted toward the driver before watching the vehicle stop, shift into reverse and rapidly back toward them.

The witness said Rapp's head struck the vehicle's rear window before she was thrown into the roadway.

Medina gave investigators a different version of events. According to a probable cause statement, he claimed he believed the cyclists were trying to flag him down.

He said he backed up at approximately 15 mph and did not see Rapp until the last moment before the collision. Authorities continue to examine the evidence as part of the ongoing investigation.

Boxing Community Mourns 

News of Rapp's death prompted an outpouring of grief throughout professional boxing.

World Boxing Council President Mauricio Sulaimán issued a statement remembering her as both an outstanding athlete and a beloved member of the sport.

"The loss of Hannah Rapp leaves us heartbroken. She was an exceptional boxer, but above all, an invaluable member of our boxing family."

He added that the organization joins in mourning with her family, friends, teammates and supporters.

Most Valuable Promotions, the company that promoted her recent world title fight, also expressed its condolences and praised the impression she made on everyone who met her.

A Promising Athlete

The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the boxing community, where Rapp had earned a reputation as one of the sport's emerging talents. Known by her ring name "Hanarchy," she had built an impressive professional record while balancing a full-time career at Texas A&M University.

Originally from Yorktown, Indiana, Rapp first competed as a standout track and field athlete at Purdue University before transitioning to professional boxing.

After relocating to College Station, Texas, she worked full time as a fire and life safety inspector at Texas A&M University while pursuing her boxing career.

Her dedication quickly paid off.

Professional Boxer and Strong Contender

Rapp compiled an 8-0-1 record through her first nine professional fights, including five victories by knockout, earning a shot at the WBC women's featherweight championship against undefeated champion Tiara Brown.

The championship bout took place in June on a nationally televised Most Valuable Promotions card in Orlando, Florida. Although Brown retained the title by unanimous decision, Rapp's performance established her as one of the division's most promising contenders.

Friends and coaches have said they believed she had the talent and determination to eventually become a world champion.

Legacy Beyond Being a Professional Boxer

Beyond boxing, Rapp earned admiration for balancing elite athletics with public service. She maintained a demanding full-time career while training at the highest level of professional boxing, inspiring fellow athletes with her discipline and determination.

As family, friends and fans continue to mourn her loss, many have reflected on a life defined by perseverance, humility and an unwavering commitment to achieving her goals.

Related Links

• Watch: Driver charged after professional boxer Hannah Rapp killed in bicycle crash (KHOU-TV)
• World Boxing Council (WBC)
• Texas A&M University
• Hannah Rapp Dies at 26 After Bicycle Crash, Rising Boxing Star Determined to Win World Title – USA Herald