28-year-old man dies after running the Bristol half marathon

A young man has died after competing in the Great Bristol Run on Sunday.

Jon Devereux, a 28-year-old Rugby player, collapsed and sadly passed away in hospital after receiving medical treatment.

His official cause of death is unknown and will be determined after a medical examination.

The Great Bristol Run company confirmed his death, saying: “It is with great sadness that The Great Run Company confirms the death of a participant at the Great Bristol Run on Sunday, May 11 2025.”

It also said that “in accordance with the wishes of the family, no further details will be released.”

In addition, a spokesperson for Great Western Air Ambulance Charity said: “Whilst providing emergency medical cover at the Great Bristol Run on Sunday 11 May, our critical care crew were called to provide immediate assistance to a patient who sadly collapsed at the event.

“A critical care doctor and specialist paramedic treated the patient at the scene, before travelling with them to hospital.

“We would like to extend our deepest condolences to the patient’s family and friends, and we would like to thank the two off-duty nurses and ambulance technician who assisted in the early moments.”

Mr Devereux was a keen rugby player for Chester RUFC. In a statement, the club praised Jon’s athleticism and expressed their deep shock at his death.

The statement reads: “Jon was a talented athlete who played senior rugby for Chester, and his energy, spirit and sportsmanship left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

“His sudden loss has deeply affected our members and the wider sporting community.”

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One of his former clubs echoed these praises. Tynedale RFC posted online: “Jon had an infectious character which came to the fore when he joined the Tynedale touring party to Canada last year.:

The Great Bristol Run company has offered their condolences to the family of Mr Devereaux, saying “the entire team involved in organising the Great Bristol Run extends their heartfelt condolences to Mr Devereaux’s family and friends.”

More than 20,000 runners took part in the sold out Great Bristol Run on Sunday, running through the city in 24 degree heat and Bristol’s hilly terrain. The half marathon and 10k events took runners around College Green and the harbour area.

Unfortunately, this is not the first time someone has died after taking part, with 26-year-old Mike Harper collapsing during last year’s race after suffering a heart attack, later dying in hospital.

Featured image via YouTube