Bodybuilding world mourns Jodi Vance, 20, after fatal heart attack at Arnold Sports Festival.
(EPICSTORIAN) — Jodi Vance, a 20-year-old bodybuilder, has passed away after suffering a fatal heart attack at the Arnold Sports Festival in Ohio.
Her family confirmed the news, attributing her sudden collapse to complications from severe dehydration.
Medical Emergency at Fitness Expo
Vance had traveled to Columbus to support athletes she coached at the multi-day event. Reports indicate she began feeling unwell backstage, experiencing symptoms of dehydration, including vomiting.
Emergency responders transported her from the Sonesta Columbus Downtown hotel to Grant Medical Center, where medical staff attempted to revive her without success.
Her family issued a statement expressing their grief: “Her heart stopped due to complications of severe dehydration. Despite all efforts by the hospital, they were unable to revive her. She was a beautiful person inside and out and will be missed every single day.”
Concerns Over Performance Enhancers
The Franklin County Coroner’s Office has not yet confirmed an official cause of death. Her coach, Justin Mihaly, suggested that substances she used to enhance her physique could have contributed to her passing.
“Jodi used two extremely hazardous substances to improve her physique—I assume just for the Arnold Expo—without my knowledge, my approval, or her family’s approval,” Mihaly said in a video posted on Instagram.
He also addressed accusations from within the bodybuilding industry that blamed him for her death. “Many people who love Jodi, including myself, tried to get her to pull off the gas pedal.
But anyone who knew Jodi knew how challenging that would be. Her work ethic was second to nobody.”
Fellow Bodybuilders Pay Tributes to Rising Talent
Vance had been studying Sports and Exercise Science at West Texas A&M University while pursuing a career in bodybuilding.
She announced her engagement to fiancée April Spears last October, sharing an emotional message about their relationship: “Over a year ago, I had no idea how much love would grow between us.
As time has passed, something beautiful has blossomed that I never expected but now can’t imagine living without.”
Her death has drawn an outpouring of tributes from fellow athletes.
IFBB Pro Shaun Clarida shared his condolences: “Wow. I just saw her. Such a bright soul. My condolences to her family.”
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Competitor Maya Soleil Astabie reflected on their time together: “I am so sorry to hear this news. I’m so grateful our paths crossed, and you will be missed in this sport & beyond.”
Elenoa McCabe, another professional bodybuilder, added: “Jodi, my heart is absolutely broken. Such a sweet angel.”
