Star college athlete Shelby Daniele's cause of death revealed as family and community mourn shocking loss

SAN LUIS OBISPO, CALIFORNIA: The sudden and heartbreaking death of former Cal Poly track and field star Shelby Daniele, aged 23, has left the sports community in shock.

Recently, it was revealed that Daniele died on Wednesday, September 25 due to a brain aneurysm, a condition that can strike without warning, as per Daily Mail.

Her death occurred just a few months after she had completed her master’s degree and only days before her family and friends could celebrate her recent academic and athletic achievements.

Shelby Daniele set multiple records during her time at Cal Poly

Daniele, known for her record-breaking performances in track and field, had been an integral part of Cal Poly’s sports program for five years.

Her passing is not only a great loss to the university but to the world of athletics, where she was a rising star with immense potential.

Tributes have poured in from teammates, friends, family members, and the university, all expressing their sorrow and admiration for the talented athlete.

Daniele was more than just a talented runner; she was a leader, a role model, and an inspiration to those around her.

During her time at Cal Poly, she set multiple records and earned the respect of her peers both on and off the track.

Last year, Daniele broke Cal Poly's indoor 200m record with an incredible time of 24.69 seconds, cementing her place as one of the school’s finest athletes.

Her achievements didn’t stop there. Daniele also held the school’s second-fastest times in the indoor 60m, clocking in at 7.62 seconds, and the 100m at 11.58 seconds.

Despite her competitive spirit, it was her character that made her truly special. Daniele served as a team captain, demonstrating leadership qualities that were admired by teammates and coaches alike.

The Cal Poly Athletics Department issued a statement honoring her memory: "Shelby was an exceptional student-athlete on the Cal Poly track and field team for five years...but more importantly she was an incredible teammate and leader. She cared deeply for those around her, had a remarkable heart, and was a role model for so many."

Shelby Daniele recently earned her master’s degree in agriculture from Cal Poly

Daniele’s presence on the team went beyond her physical abilities.

She was a source of support and encouragement, always putting her teammates first and pushing them to be their best. Her influence extended to those considering joining the track team as well.

One athlete's father, Brian Brandenburg, shared how Daniele played a pivotal role in his daughter’s decision to run track at Cal Poly.

In a heartfelt social media post, Brandenburg wrote, "The young lady that was the driving force in (his daughter) Eva’s decision to run Track at Cal Poly, Shelby Daniele, passed away...Completely heartbreaking... hug your children every time you can and tell them you love them every day."

Daniele's promising future was tragically cut short just months after she achieved two significant milestones. She had completed her bachelor’s degree in agriculture in 2023 and then went on to earn her master’s in the same subject in June 2024.

Cal Poly Athletics expressed their deep sadness over the sudden loss: "Shelby was truly one of a kind and will be missed dearly by everyone in the Cal Poly community. Our condolences go out to her family and friends."

Daniele’s sister, Jessica Reichman, was among the first to break the heartbreaking news to the public.

In a deeply emotional Instagram post, Reichman shared her grief, "My worst nightmare happened this morning... My sister, my best friend left Earth to be with God. Too soon and too fast and I will never understand why but she is where she is supposed to be now."

Reichman’s message captured the sense of profound loss felt by those closest to Daniele, highlighting the deep bond they shared.

"I so wish I could have lived the rest of our lives together, but things will be different now and we will get through it... I love you forever baby girl."