Daniela Larreal Chirinos, a five-time Olympic cyclist known for her significant contributions to Venezuelan cycling, was discovered dead in her apartment in Las Vegas, Nevada on August 16, 2024. The cause of death was reportedly choking on her food.

Chirinos, aged 50, had an illustrious cycling career, representing Venezuela in five Olympic Games from 1992 to 2012. Post-retirement, she relocated to Las Vegas and worked as a waitress in a local hotel.

Concerns arose when Chirinos was not seen after August 11, 2024, and failed to report to work the subsequent day. Her worried colleagues reported her unexplained absence to the police, which led to the discovery of her body five days later. The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department and the Clark County Coroner’s Office determined that the cause of death was asphyxiation from choking on food.

The preliminary autopsy report revealed “solid food remains were found in her trachea,” a statement confirmed by authorities. The investigation into the exact circumstances and cause of her death is ongoing, but initial findings suggest an accidental choking incident.

Larreal Chirinos’ career was marked by dedication, talent, and impressive achievements. She was a participant in five Olympic Games, solidifying her position as one of Venezuela’s most accomplished athletes. Her best Olympic performance was a seventh-place finish in the team sprint finals in London in 2012. In addition to her Olympic feats, Larreal Chirinos won numerous other international competitions, including two gold medals at the Pan American Games and the Pan American Championships.

The Venezuelan Olympic Committee expressed their sorrow over her passing, noting in a statement that “Her great career and multiple triumphs always filled us with great pride.” Her death has left a profound void in the Venezuelan community and the world of cycling.

Aside from her athletic prowess, Larreal Chirinos was also recognized for her strong political stance. After vocal criticism of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro’s regime, she received death threats and sought refuge in the United States, living in self-imposed exile. Despite facing adversity, she remained a prominent figure in both sports and politics.

The loss of Larreal Chirinos, a champion in sports and a fighter in life, has deeply affected her friends, family, and former teammates. The widespread expression of grief from the cycling community is a testament to the respect and admiration she earned throughout her career.

Venezuelan opposition figure, Henrique Capriles, also expressed his sadness, depicting Larreal Chirinos as “a symbol of perseverance, dedication, and passion.”