Rising boxer Hannah Rapp, 26, was killed on Saturday after being struck by a driver who allegedly reversed into her while she cycled along a Texas highway, authorities confirmed. The Brazos County Sheriff’s Office arrested Charles Medina, 31, charging him with manslaughter in connection with the incident.
Alleged road rage attack on Texas highway
According to police, Medina passed two cyclists, including Rapp, before stopping his vehicle and deliberately reversing, striking her. The incident occurred in College Station, where Rapp had relocated after beginning her professional boxing career in 2024.
Hannah Rapp’s boxing career and legacy
A native of Yorktown, Indiana, Rapp transitioned from track at Purdue University to boxing, balancing her athletic pursuits with full-time work as a fire and life safety inspector at Texas A&M University. She entered the ring with an undefeated record of 8-0-1 before challenging Tiara Brown for the WBC women’s featherweight title last month.
Rapp lost a unanimous decision in the Orlando bout but earned praise from her opponent. Brown later paid tribute, calling her “the best dance partner I have ever faced as a pro” and recalling Rapp’s sportsmanship in asking for her autograph before their fight.
Tributes from the boxing community
WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman also honored Rapp, stating: “The loss of Hannah Rapp leaves us heartbroken. She was an exceptional boxer, but above all, an invaluable member of our boxing family.” Medina remains in custody at the Brazos County Detention Center as the investigation continues.
