The runner is given first aid after collapsing while participating in the 2025 VnExpress Marathon Hue on April 6.
The incident occurred on April 6, when a 53-year-old female runner, identified by bib number 50774, collapsed near Truong Tien Bridge during the marathon.
According to the organising committee, at 6.39 am, emergency responders received a report that the runner had lost consciousness. A rapid response medical team was immediately dispatched and arrived at the scene within three minutes.
At the time of arrival, the runner showed signs of cyanosis in her arms and legs, was not breathing, and had no detectable pulse in the radial or carotid arteries. Medical staff confirmed that the patient had gone into cardiac and respiratory arrest. On-site resuscitation was initiated before the runner was transported by ambulance to Hue Central Hospital.
During the transfer, the patient received continuous cardiopulmonary resuscitation, including oxygen ventilation and chest compressions. Although there were brief moments when a pulse was detected during compressions, the runner remained unconscious and cyanotic.
At 6.48 am, the patient was admitted to Hue Central Hospital. Despite the medical team's best efforts, she remained in a deep coma with no reflexes and dilated pupils, indicating severe brain damage. Later that night, her family chose to bring her home, and she passed away at 1.15 am on April 7.
Hue Central Hospital also reported treating three additional marathon participants on the morning of April 6. Two have since been discharged, while the third remains under medical care due to a more serious condition.
The 2025 VnExpress Marathon Hue attracted nearly 12,000 runners, making it the largest sporting event in the city. The marathon also marked the opening of the National Tourism Year-Hue 2025.
