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22-year-old runner dies after collapsing near Cleveland Marathon's finish line

Low Section Of People Running On Road In City
Taylor Ceepo, 22, collapsed and died while running the Cleveland Marathon on Sunday. (Getty)

Tragedy struck in Cleveland on Sunday, as 22-year-old runner Taylor Ceepo collapsed and died at the 42nd annual Cleveland Marathon.

Racing officials confirmed her death to Cleveland.com, saying that she collapsed less than a mile from the finish line.

Ceepo had just graduated from nearby Walsh University in North Canton, Ohio, where she played soccer and majored in biology. She went to high school at Akron’s St. Vincent-St. Mary, which is also LeBron James’ alma mater.

Ceepo was quickly taken to University Hospitals, where she was pronounced dead on arrival. University Hospitals spokesman George Stamatis could not share any more information about her condition because of HIPAA laws.

"It is my sad duty to inform you that a beloved member of our Walsh family, Ms. Taylor Ceepo, collapsed today while running the Cleveland marathon and has passed away,” Walsh vice president for student affairs Amy Malaska wrote in a statement.

“Her mother, dear friends and her boyfriend [also a Walsh student] were with her. Our love and deepest sympathies go to her family and loved ones. Your Walsh family will keep you all in prayer."

Runner deaths at marathons are unfortunately common for a variety of health reasons. Just the day before, a 48-year-old runner died in a Tobago marathon, and a 29-year-old died after running the London Marathon last year.

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