Hannah Rapp, the promising American boxer, has been tragically taken from her loved ones and the boxing community after being fatally struck by a vehicle while cycling in Texas on Saturday, July 17, 2026. As authorities continue their investigation into the incident, Charles Medina, 31, has been arrested and charged with manslaughter, sparking an outpouring of grief and tributes.
According to the Brazos County Sheriff's Office, Rapp was cycling alongside a companion when she was hit by Medina's vehicle as it reversed back down the road. The sheriff's office confirmed that Rapp was pronounced dead at hospital after being transported for treatment. Under Texas law, manslaughter is defined as recklessly causing someone's death.
The boxing world has been left reeling from Rapp's untimely passing, with Mauricio Sulaiman, President of the World Boxing Council (WBC), paying heartfelt tribute to her exceptional talent and kind spirit. He extended condolences to her family, team, and loved ones, saying "Hannah was an invaluable member of our boxing family." Tiara Brown, Rapp's opponent in her last fight, also paid a poignant tribute, describing Rapp as "the best dance partner I have ever faced as a pro" on social media.
Rapp, who hailed from Yorktown, Indiana, boasted an impressive professional record of eight wins – five by knockout – and one draw from nine fights. Her tenth bout in June saw her challenge Tiara Brown for the WBC women’s featherweight championship, although she ultimately lost by unanimous decision. Brazos County jail records indicate that Medina remained in custody on Sunday morning, July 18, 2026, with his bond yet to be set.
Notably, Medina's past run-ins with the law have included charges of deadly conduct, assault causing bodily injury, and reckless driving, although details of these earlier cases remain unclear. If convicted of manslaughter in Rapp's death, Medina faces a possible prison sentence of between two and 20 years under Texas law.