TikTok Star Caleb Graves Dies After Finishing Disneyland Half Marathon

A social media star has tragically passed away after crossing the finish line at Disney’s 2024 Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon.

Caleb Graves, 33, who was known for his vlogs and massive TikTok following, collapsed shortly after completing the race on Sunday at the Anaheim resort.

Anaheim Police Department Sgt. Matt Sutter confirmed the incident, stating that Anaheim Fire & Rescue teams immediately jumped into action to assist Caleb Graves at the scene, but sadly, it wasn’t enough to save him.

Sources tell Entertainment Weekly that the 33-year-old crossed the finish line around 7 a.m. local time and received medical attention just moments later.

"The runner crossed the finish line. As soon as he did, one of the workers at the marathon noticed the gentleman was clutching his chest,” Anaheim Police Department Sgt. Matt Sutter told EW. "They noticed he was going into cardiac arrest."

He was quickly transported to the nearby Anaheim Global Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead approximately an hour later.

Just a day before his death, Caleb Graves posted a TikTok video where he shared an alarming moment—he had passed out from heat exhaustion while walking his dog. "I really hope I get through the race tomorrow morning," he said at the end of the video.

Now, that post feels haunting, as the social media star’s sudden passing has left his followers mourning the loss of a beloved online presence and an inspiring runner.

He has also posted several other TikTok videos talking about the heat at Disney Parks.

Disneyland Resort spokesperson, Jessica Good, told EW, "We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss, and our hearts are with Caleb’s family and loved ones during this difficult time."

The Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon Weekend was just one of many marathon events hosted by Disney as part of its popular runDisney program. These races are a staple at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, offering a range of athletic experiences for participants.

The next runDisney event is set for the weekend of January 30, featuring a 5K, 10K, half-marathon, and a separate kids' race.

According to The Weather Channel, temperatures soared well above 100 degrees during the marathon weekend, peaking at a sweltering 110 degrees on Friday and hitting 107 degrees on Sunday.

Despite these extreme conditions, Sgt. Matt Sutter stated it’s still unclear whether the heat played a role in Graves' death. The Orange County Sheriff-Coroner Department is now investigating the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.

As fans and the running community process the loss, Sutter hopes the investigation will uncover any potential links between the intense heat and Graves' death.

runDisney events have extensive medical teams on-site, including first aid stations and mobile medical units along the course. Medical professionals are available at various points to respond to any emergencies.

Plus, multiple water and hydration stations are set up along the course to keep runners hydrated. These stations are strategically placed and well-stocked to accommodate the needs of participants, especially in hot weather.

The organization has previously stated that it closely monitors weather conditions leading up to and during the event.

As the program continues to attract runners from around the globe, the tragic death of Caleb Graves has cast a shadow over the community, prompting a closer look at safety measures for future events.