An 18-year-old high school athlete from Lebanon, Missouri died after collapsing at the finish line of a half-marathon on October 5, 2024.
Rudy “Junior” Zevallos was participating in the Frog Hill Half Marathon, a 13.1-mile race in Waynesville, Missouri, when he fell ill. Despite being rushed to the hospital, he could not be saved. His family shared that his body temperature had reached a fatal level, causing his heart to stop.
Zevallos, a senior at Lebanon High School, planned to graduate early in December and join the Marine Corps, following in his father’s footsteps. He was a standout athlete who competed in track, football, and wrestling throughout high school. Friends and family described him as a determined, motivated young man with an exceptional spirit.
Beyond athletics, Junior immersed himself in studying the Bible, investing, and self-improvement. His family said, “He was always striving to become the absolute best version of himself.” His competitive drive was evident as he completed the half-marathon in under two hours, fulfilling a personal goal.
At Lebanon High School, Junior was known not only for his athleticism but also for his warm presence among peers and staff. In a statement, the school district extended its condolences to the family, saying, “This is a very difficult time for our school community, and we extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends affected by this loss.”
The Laclede County community has rallied to support the Zevallos family. A memorial fund has been set up on GoFundMe, which, as of October 13, had raised over $32,000 to cover funeral expenses. The page featured tributes from loved ones, describing how Junior loved hiking, spending time with his girlfriend Olivia, and working at the 7 Brew Coffee Shop.
Junior’s sisters expressed their pride in his accomplishments, noting that he inspired everyone who knew him. “Rest was a foreign concept to him,” they wrote on the fundraiser page, highlighting his boundless energy and enthusiasm for life. The community has shown its support through various memorials, including a balloon release and a tribute outside the coffee shop where he worked.
Junior’s legacy will continue through the memories he created and the lives he touched. The family is awaiting results from an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death, which could take several weeks. In the meantime, they are focused on honoring his life and finding solace in the support of friends and the community.
