Mississippi native and Olympic sprinter Tori Bowie was found dead in her Florida home at age 32, her management company has announced via Twitter.
Bowie was born in Sandhill, where she was raised by her grandmother, and went to Pisgah High School in Rankin County.
Bowie was a track and field standout at the University of Southern Mississippi, focusing on the long jump until she switched to the track in 2014.
She finished fourth in the long jump at the world championships in 2019, but did not attempt to qualify for the US team at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021.
“My heart breaks for the family of Tori Bowie,” wrote the three-time Olympic champion Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce on Twitter. “A great competitor and source of light. Your energy and smile will always be with me. Rest in peace.”
Bowie was much-loved for her humility on the circuit. USM also declared Nov. 25 as Tori Bowie Day.
“One day I hope that I can come to Sand Hill and there’s this huge sign that says, ‘Welcome to Sand Hill, home of Tori Bowie,’” she is quoted as having said in 2016.
Bowie’s personal record of 6.95 m for the long jump was set in 2014. She won gold (4×100-meter relay), silver (100m) and bronze (200m) at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Games.
Her cause of death has not yet been released.
“We’re devastated to share the very sad news that Tori Bowie has passed away. We’ve lost a client, dear friend, daughter and sister. Tori was a champion… a beacon of light that shined so bright! We’re truly heartbroken and our prayers are with the family and friends,” said Icon Management Inc.