Tragic Loss: 28-Year-Old Army Veteran Dies After Completing Half-Marathon, Days Before Secret Wedding Plans

A 28-year-old Army veteran from California collapsed and died shortly after completing the Silver Strand Veterans Day Half Marathon in San Diego. Scottie Williams, who had successfully rebuilt his life after struggling with PTSD, fell near a water station moments after crossing the finish line on Sunday.

Despite emergency medical personnel performing CPR for approximately 90 minutes, they were unable to resuscitate him. His mother, Katherine Yglesias-Herrera, expressed her disbelief at how her physically fit son, who had previously completed several half-marathons, could pass away so suddenly. The family is currently awaiting autopsy results to determine the cause of death.

Just two days before the tragic event, Williams had enthusiastically shown his mother his new apartment during a FaceTime conversation. During this call, he revealed his intention to "secretly marry" his girlfriend, Bree Rivera, who had been waiting for him at the race's finish line.

Williams had served his country as a transport driver in both Korea and Syria. Upon returning from his deployment in Syria, he battled with PTSD and was subsequently classified as 80% disabled by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Through determination and resilience, he gradually reconstructed his life - living outdoors, working at a ski resort, and eventually settling in San Diego, a city that his mother credited with aiding his healing process.

In San Diego, Williams discovered newfound happiness, established a home near the beach, and developed a nurturing relationship with Rivera. According to his mother, he had achieved a level of happiness she hadn't witnessed in years.

On Thursday, Williams' body was returned to Ridgecrest, where police officers, fellow veterans, and community members lined the streets with American flags in tribute. A GoFundMe campaign has successfully raised over $20,000 to cover funeral expenses. His memorial service is planned for the following weekend.

Yglesias-Herrera expressed her wish for people to remember her son as an "amazing" individual and one of the "best people" she had ever known.