The running community and Disney fans alike are mourning the sudden death of a popular Disney TikTok creator and avid runner who collapsed after finishing Disneyland’s Halloween Half Marathon. The tragic incident occurred during an intense heat wave sweeping through Southern California, underscoring the potential dangers of running in extreme weather conditions.
Runner Collapses at Finish Line Amid Soaring Temperatures
Bobby Graves, known to his followers as Caleb, was a 35-year-old runner and social media creator known for his love of Disney and marathons. On Sunday, Graves participated in the Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon, one of the many runDisney events that draw thousands of participants to Disney resorts each year.
Unexpected Tragedy Strikes at the Finish Line
Around 7 a.m., Graves crossed the finish line of the half marathon in Anaheim, visibly clutching his chest in distress. Just moments after completing the race, he collapsed, and a volunteer nearby managed to catch him before he hit the ground. Sgt. Matt Sutter of the Anaheim Police Department confirmed the details of the incident to the Los Angeles Times, noting that emergency responders were immediately on the scene.
Despite their efforts, Graves could not be revived, and he was pronounced dead shortly after collapsing. The cause of death is still under investigation by the coroner’s office, though Graves had no known pre-existing medical conditions.
Graves’ Final TikTok Foreshadows Fears About the Race
The day before his tragic passing, Graves posted a TikTok video detailing his concerns about the upcoming race. He shared a chilling account of a recent experience with heat exhaustion while walking his dog, describing how he had passed out due to the extreme temperatures. In the video, Graves expressed his hope of successfully completing the half marathon, unaware that it would be his final run.
“I really hope I get through the race tomorrow morning,” Graves said in his TikTok, which has since been flooded with messages of condolences from fans and followers.
A Seasoned Runner with a Passion for Disney
Graves was not new to the running scene; he was an experienced long-distance runner who had previously completed both full and half marathons at Disney World in 2023 and earlier this year. His love for Disney extended beyond marathons—Graves regularly documented his visits to Disney and Universal theme parks, offering tips for runners and sharing glimpses of his daily life with his over 18,000 TikTok followers.
Jessica Good, a spokesperson for Disneyland Resort, expressed the company’s condolences in a statement, saying, “We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss, and our hearts are with Caleb’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
Friends, Family, and Fans Mourn the Loss of a Beloved Creator
Graves’ sudden death has left a void in the hearts of many. Friends and family members took to social media to share their memories and offer their condolences. His fans, who had come to know him through his joyful and inspiring content, also expressed their grief, turning his TikTok page into a memorial filled with heartfelt messages.
In addition to his social media presence, Graves was a litigation associate at the prestigious law firm Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, which represents some of the biggest names in technology. His professional achievements were just as impressive as his personal passion for running and creating content.
A History of Tragedy in RunDisney Events
Graves’ death is not the first to occur at a runDisney event. In 2019, another runner lost their life during the Walt Disney World Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend 5K, highlighting the physical demands and risks associated with long-distance running, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
Heat Wave Continues to Impact Southern California
The marathon took place during a severe heat wave in Southern California, with temperatures soaring to uncomfortable levels. Meteorologists have predicted some relief from the heat in the coming days, but the dangerous conditions during the race underscore the importance of caution when exercising in extreme weather.
Community Calls for Greater Awareness of Heat Risks
As the running community comes to terms with this loss, there is a growing call for increased awareness of the risks associated with running in extreme conditions. Graves’ death serves as a poignant reminder of the need to prioritize health and safety, particularly during physically demanding events like marathons.
His legacy as a joyful Disney enthusiast, dedicated runner, and beloved content creator will live on through the memories shared by his loved ones and the many lives he touched with his content.