LA County Deputy Dies During Baker to Vegas Race

Levi Vargas remembered as compassionate, respected officer

Apr. 14, 2026 at 9:07pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a sheriff's badge against a stark black background, lit dramatically by a harsh camera flash, conceptually representing the somber investigation into a law enforcement tragedy.The tragic loss of Deputy Levi Vargas underscores the risks officers face even during off-duty events meant to build camaraderie.Los Angeles Today

Los Angeles County sheriff's Deputy Levi Vargas, a 30-year-old 11-year department veteran, died from a medical emergency suffered during the annual Baker to Vegas Challenge Cup Relay Race. Vargas was remembered at his funeral as a calm, loyal, and deeply compassionate man who made others feel valued.

Why it matters

The Baker to Vegas race is a long-standing tradition for law enforcement, but Vargas' death highlights the risks officers can face even during off-duty events. His passing is a tragic loss for the LA County Sheriff's Department and the local community he served.

The details

Vargas joined the sheriff's department at age 19, serving in custody assignments and at the Norwalk and San Dimas stations. He was described as having a positive impact on the community through his calm, kindness, and professionalism. Vargas' wife Amanda said he was her 'lifeboat' who helped her through a difficult time after her father's death.

  • Vargas died on March 28, 2026 during the Baker to Vegas race.
  • His funeral service was held on April 14, 2026 at Calvary Chapel Chino Hills.

The players

Levi Vargas

A 30-year-old 11-year veteran of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department who died from a medical emergency during the Baker to Vegas race.

Robert Luna

The Los Angeles County Sheriff who spoke at Vargas' funeral, calling him an 'exceptional young man who was loved, respected and very admired.'

Amanda Vargas

Levi Vargas' wife, who said he was her 'lifeboat' and 'light in a dark season' of her life.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“He loved being a deputy in Los Angeles County. If asked, he would talk about how big our department was and all the opportunities that were available at the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department because it was his second family.”

— Robert Luna, Los Angeles County Sheriff

“Levi was my lifeboat. My light in a dark season of my life. And with him, I experienced a kind of love I didn't know existed.”

— Amanda Vargas

The takeaway

Vargas' death is a tragic loss for the LA County Sheriff's Department and the community he served, highlighting the risks officers can face even during off-duty events like the annual Baker to Vegas race. His compassion and dedication to public service will be remembered.