A Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputy died after suffering a medical emergency while participating in the annual Baker to Vegas Challenge Cup Relay race this weekend, the department announced Sunday.
“The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department mourns the loss of Deputy Levi Vargas, who passed away on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at the age of 30,” the LASD announced on social media Sunday.
“Deputy Vargas joined the department in 2015 as a custody assistant and later graduated from Academy Class 413. He served in several assignments throughout his career, most recently at San Dimas station. He was known among his colleagues and friends for his professionalism, commitment and compassion to our communities.
“His loss is deeply felt across our department, and he will be greatly missed. Deputy Vargas is survived by his wife, parents, siblings, and extended family.
“We honor his service and legacy. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and colleagues during this incredibly difficult time,” the department’s statement concluded.
The LASD said earlier Sunday that Vargas was “among numerous law enforcement personnel representing their agencies at this annual event when the medical emergency occurred. Despite receiving medical care, the deputy ultimately passed away from their injuries.”
Further details about his death were not immediately provided.
Held annually since 1985, the 120-mile, 20-stage Baker to Vegas Challenge Cup Relay race is designed for law enforcement personnel, who run from Baker, California, through the desert to Las Vegas.
This year’s race took place on Saturday and Sunday.