UPDATE at 2:35 p.m. on 10/5/2026: The Milwaukee County Medical Examiner identifies the runner who died as 36-year-old John Meise of Waukesha.
The Medical Examiner noted that there was “no medical history” identified for Meise, who was running in the marathon and was witnessed collapsing to the ground. He was transported to Froedtert Hospital Emergency Room where he died a short time later.
MILWAUKEE — A participant in the Milwaukee Lakefront Half Marathon has died after being rushed to the hospital on Sunday morning.
The Milwaukee County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed they were called to a hospital where the runner was pronounced dead on Oct. 4.
No details, including the person’s identity have been released.
Marathon organizers released the following statement:
“The Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon extends its sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the half marathon participant who passed away following Sunday’s event. We are deeply saddened by this loss and are grateful to the medical personnel, first responders, volunteers and public safety partners who support the safety and well-being of participants throughout race weekend. The Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon maintains established medical and emergency-response protocols, developed in coordination with its medical and public safety partners, including on-course medical support, communications procedures and coordinated response planning. The safety of participants remains a central priority in the planning and operation of the event.”
The full and half marathon races began at 7 a.m. on Sunday, starting at the Baird Center and crossing the Hoan Bridge twice.
The runner’s death comes less than a month after an athlete died during the IRONMAN 70.3 in Madison.
