A beloved TikTok personality, Bobby Graves—known by his middle name, Caleb, on social media—tragically died shortly after completing Disneyland’s Halloween Half Marathon on Sunday morning. The 35-year-old collapsed and went into cardiac arrest just moments after crossing the finish line around 7 a.m., according to Anaheim police.
Emergency response and cause of death
Graves clutched his chest as he finished the 13.1-mile race, which took place at Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California. Sgt. Matt Sutter of the Anaheim Police Department told People magazine that emergency personnel responded immediately, providing life-saving measures on the scene. Despite their efforts, Graves was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Sutter noted, “Fire and rescue personnel were right there on the scene. Emergency services could not have been there any faster.” Graves, an experienced long-distance runner, had no known pre-existing medical conditions, making his sudden cardiac arrest all the more shocking. The coroner’s office is investigating the exact cause of death.
Graves expressed concerns about the heat before the race
Just a day before his death, Graves posted on TikTok expressing his concerns about the Southern California heat. He revealed in a video that he had “passed out” from heat exhaustion after walking his dog on Saturday, just hours before the race.
“Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon is tomorrow, and I’m marginally worried now,” Graves said in his video, adding, “This heat is no joke.” He explained that he had collapsed after returning home from being outside for just 20 minutes in the afternoon.
Graves, originally from Texas, commented on the intensity of the Southern California heat, saying, “I know what heat is like, but the UV exposure with the heat in Southern California is its own kind of beast.” He added, “I really hope I get through the race tomorrow morning.”
Southern California heat wave raises concerns
The half marathon took place during a triple-digit heatwave in Southern California, with Anaheim temperatures soaring to 107 degrees by midday Sunday. Although the race began early in the morning, the extreme heat may have played a role in Graves’ sudden collapse. Graves had reportedly completed the race in under two hours, making “really good time,” according to Sgt. Sutter.
Heat exhaustion and its risks
Heat exhaustion, which Graves described experiencing the day before the race, occurs when the body’s temperature rises to between 101 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit. If left untreated, heat exhaustion can lead to heatstroke, a life-threatening condition where the body’s temperature exceeds 106 degrees Fahrenheit.
Common symptoms of heat exhaustion include dizziness, confusion, and nausea. Experts recommend resting in a cool environment and staying hydrated to avoid escalating symptoms. According to the Cleveland Clinic, heatstroke can occur within 10 to 15 minutes if heat exhaustion is not properly managed.
Outpouring of grief and tributes
In the wake of Graves’ sudden death, friends, family, and fans have shared heartfelt messages on social media. A close friend, Zane Drury, posted on Facebook, writing, “It is with great sadness that on behalf of the Graves family, I announce the passing of Caleb Graves this morning. He will surely be missed by those close to him and his family.”
Drury added, “My family asks that you give the Graves family the space and opportunity they need to make the necessary arrangements for such an incredible loss, and to join with us in prayer for peace that surpasses all understanding.”
Disneyland Resort spokesperson Jessica Good expressed the park’s condolences, stating, “We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss, and our hearts are with Caleb’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
An accomplished long-distance runner
Graves was an avid runner who had successfully completed both the full and half marathons at Disney World in 2023 and 2024. His passion for running and his energetic social media presence made him a beloved figure among his followers.
As investigations continue, the outpouring of love and support for Graves’ family is a testament to the impact he made in both the running community and the online world.
