Left: Hannah Rapp (Instagram). Right: Charles Medina (Brazos County Sheriff’s Office). Background: The 23000 block of FM 159 in Texas, where investigators say Medina fatally struck Rapp with his vehicle (Google Maps).
A Texas driver is accused of deliberately striking a cyclist after passing two people riding bicycles along a rural roadway, killing a professional boxer who also worked as a fire safety inspector, authorities said.
Charles Eric Medina, 31, has been charged with manslaughter in connection with the death of 26-year-old Hannah Rapp, the Brazos County Sheriff’s Office said.
Deputies were called to the 23000 block of FM 159 shortly before 10 a.m. Saturday after reports of a serious crash. When first responders arrived, they found Rapp lying in the roadway. She was taken to a hospital, where she was later pronounced dead.
Investigators said Medina had driven past two bicyclists traveling on the road before allegedly bringing his vehicle to a stop, putting it in reverse and hitting one of the riders.
Officials have not said what they believe prompted the alleged attack, including whether road rage may have played a role. The sheriff’s office described the case as an “isolated incident” and said detectives are still working to collect additional information.
Rapp had recently competed on one of boxing’s biggest stages, challenging Tiara Brown last month for the World Boxing Council featherweight title. She lost the bout by unanimous decision.
“The loss of Hannah Rapp leaves us heartbroken,” WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman said in a statement released to ESPN. “She was an exceptional boxer, but above all, an invaluable member of our boxing family. We join in the grief that overwhelms her loved ones, her team, and all those who had the privilege of knowing and supporting her throughout her brilliant career.”
Local Fox affiliate KRIV reports that Rapp was originally from Indiana before moving to the Lone Star State where she worked as a fire and life safety inspector at Texas A&M University.
Most Valuable Promotions said Rapp made a “lasting impression on everyone who had the opportunity to meet her.”
“She was a gifted athlete, a valued member of the boxing community and someone who was deeply respected by those around her,” a statement posted to Instagram said.
Brown also posted a tribute.
“Hannah was such a wonderful soul,” she said. “The entire fight week she brought a different type of vibe everywhere she went. She was strong, tough & ready to show the world she belonged here. Hannah is the best opponent I have faced so far in my pro career.”
Deputies arrested Medina and booked him into the Brazos County Jail, where he is being held on a $250,000 bond. His next court date is not listed.
