Hannah Henry, a 26-year-old competitive athlete from Victoria, British Columbia, was tragically died in a hit-and-run incident while riding in Phoenix, Arizona. Her death has left the Canadian triathlon community in grief. The fatal collision occurred on Sunday, February 8, 2026, as Henry was training in a designated bike lane. A van driven by 46-year-old Eric Hodge veered off the road, mounted the sidewalk, and struck Henry before fleeing the scene.
Emergency services, including the Phoenix Fire Department, responded swiftly to the scene. Despite their efforts, Henry was pronounced dead at the location. The incident has sent shockwaves through the endurance sports world, with tributes pouring in from athletes, coaches, and fans across North America. Her death is being investigated as a criminal case, and authorities have since arrested Hodge, who reportedly admitted to using fentanyl prior to the crash.
Henry’s athletic journey was marked by excellence and determination. She rose to prominence as a standout triathlete at Arizona State University, where she captured back-to-back USA Triathlon Collegiate National Championships in 2017 and 2018. Her leadership helped the Sun Devils secure team titles and establish themselves as a dominant force in collegiate triathlon.
Beyond her collegiate success, Henry represented Canada on the international stage, including at the 2019 Pan American Games and multiple junior world championships. Her early promise was evident from her participation in the 2014 and 2017 BC Summer Games. Her sister, Holly Henry, is also a triathlete, underscoring the family’s deep ties to the sport.
The tragedy has reignited conversations around cyclist safety and impaired driving. Advocates are calling for stricter enforcement of traffic laws and better infrastructure to protect vulnerable road users. Henry’s death is a painful reminder of the risks athletes face, even when following safety protocols such as using designated bike lanes.
As the investigation continues, the triathlon world remembers Hannah Henry not just for her athletic achievements but for her spirit, discipline, and the inspiration she provided to young athletes. Her legacy will endure in the hearts of those she trained with, competed against, and inspired throughout her career.
