Caleb Graves, a beloved TikTok star and Disney influencer, tragically passed away at the age of 35 shortly after completing the 2024 Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon. The shocking incident unfolded on Sunday, September 8, at Anaheim’s Disneyland, where Graves crossed the finish line, only to collapse moments later, according to Entertainment Weekly.
According to Sergeant Matt Sutter of the Anaheim Police Department, Graves was seen clutching his chest shortly after finishing the race. “The runner crossed the finish line. As soon as he did, one of the workers at the marathon noticed the gentleman was clutching his chest,” Sutter shared in a statement to Us Weekly. “They noticed he was going into cardiac arrest.” Caleb was immediately rushed to the Anaheim Global Medical Center, but tragically, he was pronounced dead about an hour later. The exact cause of death has yet to be determined.
Disneyland Resort spokesperson Jessica Good expressed the company’s sorrow, stating, “We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss. Our hearts are with Caleb’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
Originally from Stephenville, Texas, Caleb Graves had relocated to Southern California, where he built a strong following of over 18,000 TikTok fans. His content often focused on his love for Disney and Universal amusement parks, as well as entertainment and travel. Graves, who was also a writer, director, and producer, had shared his excitement about the Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon with his followers, posting several videos in the days leading up to the race.
In a video posted the day before the event, Caleb expressed concerns about running in the Southern California heat, which he described as a “beast” compared to the heat he had experienced growing up in Texas. “Disney Halloween Half Marathon Weekend is here! … If you’re running this weekend, remember it will be HOT! Stay hydrated and listen to your body,” he warned, sharing his own struggles with heat exhaustion. Caleb explained that he had passed out after walking his dog in the heat just days before the race, adding, “I really hope I get through the race tomorrow morning.”
Fans flooded the comments section of his final post, sharing their grief and condolences. “This is heartbreaking. Condolences to Caleb Graves’s loved ones and friends. Prayers of strength,” one follower wrote. Another added, “Our hearts are saddened today, thank you for all the smiles.”
The loss of Caleb Graves has left a profound impact on his fans and the Disney community, as they mourn the untimely passing of a cherished creator.