Olympic medallist Jenny Simpson collapsed at track event, lost pulse and was rushed to a Raleigh, NC hospital

June 17, 2026

Olympic bronze medalist Jenny Simpson collapsed during a track event in Raleigh, North Carolina, on June 16, 2026, and suffered a life-threatening medical emergency. The 39-year-old runner, who won the 1500-meter bronze at the 2016 Rio Olympics, was pacing a group in a mile race at a community “Pop Up Miles” event when she suddenly fell and lost her pulse entirely.

Emergency responders and bystanders immediately administered CPR and used an automated external defibrillator (AED) at the track, which successfully restored her pulse before she was transported to a nearby hospital. Without this rapid response, the outcome could have been far worse, as Simpson was momentarily without a pulse during the cardiac arrest episode.

Simpson is now receiving medical care at a Raleigh hospital, where she regained consciousness and was able to answer questions, marking a significant positive development. Race organizers stated she is receiving excellent medical care, though her full health status remains unclear as she continues treatment. The incident has sparked concern across the track and field community for the distinguished American athlete. Let’s Run