Hannah Rapp, a 26-year-old American professional boxer who competed for the World Boxing Council women's featherweight championship in June, was killed on Saturday while cycling in Brazos County, Texas, after a motorist struck her with his car, authorities said.
Incident Details and Arrest
The Brazos County Sheriff's Office reported that Rapp and a fellow cyclist were riding on a local road when Charles Medina, 31, passed them in his car, stopped, and reversed his vehicle, hitting Rapp. She was pronounced dead after being transported to a hospital. Medina was arrested on a manslaughter charge, defined under Texas law as recklessly causing a person's death. The sheriff's office stated the case remains under active investigation and is considered isolated.
Tributes from the Boxing Community
WBC President Mauricio Sulaimán expressed grief, calling Rapp "an exceptional boxer, but above all, an invaluable member of our boxing family." Tiara Brown, who defeated Rapp in a unanimous decision to retain her title, wrote on social media: "We fought a GREAT fight for the fans from the [first] bell to the last. It was my honor to share the ring with her." Rapp had eight victories, including five by knockout, and one draw in her professional career.
Legal Proceedings and Prior Arrests
According to Brazos jail records, Medina's bond was not immediately set, and he remained in custody Sunday morning. He had prior arrests for deadly conduct by discharging a firearm, assault causing bodily injury, and reckless driving. If convicted of manslaughter, he faces two to 20 years in prison under Texas law.
