One runner dies, another in critical condition after cardiac arrests in Madrid half marathon

Tragedy struck during the Movistar Madrid Half Marathon on April 6, as a 35-year-old man died and a 20-year-old runner remains in critical condition after both suffered cardiac arrest while participating in the race. 

The event, which drew 27,000 participants, was marred by these two incidents that prompted swift emergency responses from medical teams, Caliber.Az reports, citing Spanish media. 

The first runner, aged 35, collapsed with just 500 meters remaining in the race, suffering a sudden heart attack. Sources from the Madrid Emergency Department confirmed that the man was found without a pulse and was immediately assisted by a Civil Protection nurse stationed near Cibeles.

The nurse, along with a Lince Unit—volunteers on bicycles assisting with medical emergencies—performed CPR on the man until additional medical teams arrived on site. Despite their efforts, the runner was later transported to La Paz Hospital, where resuscitation attempts continued. Unfortunately, he passed away shortly after arrival.

Due to the family's request for privacy, no further details were provided about the deceased, though the event organizers issued a statement expressing their "deepest condolences."

In a separate incident, a 20-year-old runner experienced cardiac arrest on Paseo de Recoletos. He was quickly assisted by a doctor from the public and two security personnel from the marathon who performed life-saving measures until more medical help arrived. The young man was transferred to Hospital Clínico and is currently in the ICU with a reserved prognosis.

In addition to the two critical cases, medical teams attending the event treated 50 other runners for heat exhaustion, sprains, and other minor injuries.

By Khagan Isayev