21-Year-Old College Student Dies After Collapsing During Half Marathon

A Tragic Loss: Remembering Toby Atwood

Toby Atwood, a 21-year-old native of Kittanning in Armstrong County, passed away after collapsing during the Presque Isle Half Marathon. Her untimely death has left a profound impact on her family, friends, and the broader community.

Toby’s older brothers, Jaret and Ogden, shared heartfelt memories of their sister with Pittsburgh's Action News 4. They described her as the best sister anyone could have, emphasizing how she was not only a sibling but also a friend to everyone in their family. "She was all of our best friends — my brother, my mom, everyone's best friend in our family," Jaret said.

They highlighted Toby's determination and work ethic, noting that she made a lasting impression on everyone she met. "She was the hardest-working, most determined person anybody would ever meet. Anybody she ever met, she left an impact on — whether it was for one day or you knew her for 21 years."

Toby was known for her positive energy and ability to bring people together. "She was literally the glue of everything. She held everybody together. She picked everybody up when they were down. There was just a smile, and just this aura around her that when she walked into a room, it didn't matter who you are or what you were doing. You just look, and you just smile, because she was always happy."

Her brothers expressed the deep sense of loss they feel. "It's such a massive hole, and it doesn't even seem real that you don't want to accept that because she was — we've been saying it the whole time, she was the best of us."

A Student with a Bright Future

Toby was a student at Thiel College, where she was a member of Zeta Tau Alpha. The sorority shared a statement honoring her legacy. "Toby was a light in everyone’s life. There was never a dull moment with her and she was always there for the people she loved when they needed it. Toby truly left her mark while she was with us. She was seen as a leader, role model and mentor. She was strong, resilient, and never afraid to speak her mind."

Thiel College described Toby as a rising senior, an accomplished member of the women’s tennis team, and a campus leader. She was part of the class of 2026, and her passing has left a void in the college community.

Her brothers reflected on the immense impact she had on those around her. "She left a Toby-sized hole in everybody's heart that's ever met her."

Memorial Services and Support

A viewing will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday and Friday at Center Hill Covenant Brethren Church in Kittanning. A funeral is scheduled for 11 a.m. on Saturday.

In the wake of her passing, many have expressed their condolences and offered support to Toby’s family. Donations to help support her family can be made through a dedicated link.

Honoring a Life Well-Lived

Toby Atwood's life was marked by her kindness, strength, and unwavering positivity. Her memory continues to inspire those who knew her. As her family and friends mourn her loss, they also celebrate the joy and love she brought into their lives.

The community has come together to honor her legacy, remembering the bright spirit that touched so many. Her story serves as a reminder of the impact one individual can have on the world around them.