According to Texas A&M University–Texarkana, Vargo suffered a medical emergency on Friday evening while competing in the Red River Athletic Conference Track and Field Championships, hosted by Xavier University. Officials said he collapsed during his event and received immediate medical attention at the scene before being transported to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased despite efforts to save him.
Graycen Vargo, originally from Dallas, was in his first year competing with the Eagles after transferring from Jacksonville College. He was pursuing a degree in computer science and competed in both cross country and track and field. In his short time with the program, he made a strong impression as a dedicated athlete and teammate, recently earning recognition with the Eagle Excellence Award for Cross Country.
University leaders and athletics staff described Vargo as hardworking, determined, and respected by those around him. In a statement, the university expressed deep sorrow and extended condolences to his family, friends, teammates, and coaches, noting that his passing has deeply affected the entire campus community.
The cause of his death has not yet been released. In response to the tragedy, the university has made counseling and support services available to students and staff as they cope with the loss.
Graycen Vargo is being remembered as a promising young athlete whose commitment, character, and positive presence left a lasting impact on those who knew him.