Daniela Larreal Chirinos, a revered five-time Olympic cyclist from Venezuela, tragically passed away in her Las Vegas apartment on August 16, 2024. The news of her untimely demise has sent shockwaves through the sports world and the Venezuelan community. Larreal, known for her outstanding athletic career and her vocal advocacy for political change in her homeland, leaves behind a lasting legacy.
Cause of Death For The Olympic Cyclist: Choking Incident
Preliminary reports suggest that Larreal died after choking on food, with authorities believing the incident occurred on August 11. Her body was discovered five days later when coworkers from the hotel where she worked grew concerned about her absence. A post-mortem examination confirmed that solid food remnants were obstructing her windpipe, leading to asphyxiation. The Clark County Coroner’s Office is currently investigating to establish the official cause of her death.
A Storied Athletic Career
Larreal’s illustrious career spanned multiple Olympics, from her debut in Barcelona in 1992 to her final appearance in London in 2012. As the only Venezuelan athlete to participate in five consecutive Games, she earned numerous accolades, including Olympic diplomas and medals in regional competitions like the Pan American Games. Her dominance in track cycling made her a national icon, inspiring a generation of Venezuelan athletes.
