Loved ones, colleagues gather for memorial service for LASD deputy who died during relay race
CHINO HILLS, Calif. (KABC) -- A memorial was held on Tuesday for a Los Angeles County sheriff's deputy who died during a relay race in the Mojave Desert last month.
Friends, family and hundreds of law enforcement officers from across the region attended the service for Deputy Levi Vargas, who died from a medical emergency during the annual Baker to Vegas Challenge Cup Relay Race.
The sheriff's department has not provided further details on how he died, only adding that he was treated by medics but ultimately passed away.
The 30-year-old was remembered as an exceptional young man who was loved, respected and admired.
"His brothers looked up to him and admired his character," said Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna. "Levi's friends knew him as a calm, loyal individual. His calm, kindness and professionalism helped him make a positive impact on the community he served."
Vargas was an 11-year veteran of the L.A. County Sheriff's Department, serving most recently at the San Dimas station.
"Levi was extremely compassionate and a gracious person," said friend Austin Stewart.
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Vargas was remembered as a man of few words, but one of very strong faith.
"Levi was shy, but one thing he was not shy about was his faith," said friend Jio Contreras. "He was a God-fearing man who inspired me, along with others, to be a better person."
The Baker to Vegas Challenge Cup Relay race features more than 270 law enforcement teams from around the world running 120 miles through the desert. Vargas' death marks the first time a competitor has died in the race, which has been held since 1985.
Levi Vargas' wife of two years also spoke at the memorial. She said they were making plans to start a family.
"I know one of the hardest truths I have to face is I'll never see Levi as a dad," said Amanda Vargas. "I don't understand why I was given a love like this only to lose him so soon. But I know this: I would rather have had him for a moment than never at all."
