Olympic Gold Medalist Sprinter Dies At 32

Olympic gold medalist sprinter Tori Bowie was raised by her grandmother from the time she was a baby. She previously credited her grandmother with giving her the confidence to dream big. In 2015, after winning the 100-meter bronze at the Worlds, she explained, “My entire life my grandmother told me I could do whatever I set my mind to.”

She went on to aim even higher and ended up winning three Olympic medals in 2016, bronze in the 200m, silver in the 100m and a gold medal in the 4x100m relay. Her most recent competition was in 2022.

@1toribowie via Instagram

Bowie, who grew up in Sandhill, Mississippi, was most recently living in Florida. Her family was worried when they were unable to get ahold of her for a few days, so they called the local police.

On Tuesday May 2, 2023, deputies from the Orange County, Florida, sheriff’s office visited Bowie’s home to check on her. They entered the residence and found that she was already dead. She was only 32 years old.

A cause of death has yet to be released, but police currently do not suspect foul play.

@1toribowie via Instagram

Icon Management, Bowie’s management company, released a statement on Twitter about the athlete’s death. They shared a picture of Bowie and wrote, “We’re devastated to share the very sad news that Tori Bowie has passed away. We’ve lost a client, dear friend, daughter and sister. Tori was a champion…a beacon of light that shined so bright! We’re truly heartbroken and our prayers are with the family and friends.”

USATF also tweeted about Bowie’s death writing, “USATF is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Tori Bowie, a three-time Olympic medalist and two-time world champion. Her impact on the sport is immeasurable, and she will be greatly missed.”

Rest in peace.