Funeral Procession Held for Deputy Who Died During Baker-Vegas Relay

The 30-year-old deputy was participating in the annual law enforcement relay race when the medical emergency occurred.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 10:10pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a police badge or other law enforcement equipment, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.The procession for a fallen deputy highlights the risks and sacrifices of law enforcement, even during community events.Covina Today

The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department conducted a procession from San Dimas to Covina, carrying the body of Deputy Levi Vargas, who died while participating in the annual Baker to Vegas Challenge Cup Relay race on Saturday. Vargas, an 11-year department veteran, was known for his professionalism, commitment, and compassion to the community.

Why it matters

The Baker to Vegas relay is a longstanding tradition for law enforcement, but this tragic incident highlights the risks involved and the impact on the department and community when an officer dies in the line of duty, even during an athletic event.

The details

The procession carried Vargas' body from the San Dimas fire station to Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Covina, where the funeral service plans have not yet been announced. Vargas joined the department in 2015 as a custody assistant and later graduated from Academy Class 413, serving in several assignments throughout his career, most recently at the San Dimas station.

  • The procession began at around 3 p.m. on Monday, March 30, 2026.
  • Vargas died on Saturday, March 28, 2026, while participating in the annual Baker to Vegas relay race.

The players

Levi Vargas

A 30-year-old deputy with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, who died while participating in the annual Baker to Vegas Challenge Cup Relay race.

Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department

The law enforcement agency that conducted the procession and honored Vargas' service.

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What they’re saying

“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.”

— Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department

What’s next

Funeral service plans for Deputy Levi Vargas have not yet been announced by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the risks that law enforcement officers face, even during athletic events meant to build camaraderie and community. The procession and honoring of Deputy Vargas's service and legacy serves as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by those who protect and serve.