A Texas A&M University-Texarkana distance runner died Friday after collapsing during a competition hosted by Xavier University in New Orelans, according to the university.
As reported by Dallas ABC affiliate WFAA, citing a university release, junior computer science major Graycen Vargo suffered a medical emergency during the Red River Athletic Conference Track and Field Championships and collapsed. He was given immediate medical attention on site before being transferred to a local hospital where he died, officials said. The cause of death had not been reported as of this writing.
"Our thoughts are with Graycen’s family, teammates, and friends as they deal with this unimaginable loss,” said A&M-Texarkana president Ross Alexander. “Graycen was a respected member of the student body and a beloved member of the Cross Country and Track and Field Teams. His presence will be greatly missed by the entire university community."
Vargo was in his first year with the Eagles after transferring from Jacksonville College in Jacksonville, Texas, WFAA's Paul Livengood reported.
Vargo was recently honored with the Eagle Excellence Award for Cross Country during the university’s annual athletic awards ceremony, university officials said in the release.
“On behalf of the Eagle athletic department, I want to convey our heartfelt sorrow at the loss of Graycen Vargo,” said director of athletics Ryan Wall. “Our prayers are with the Vargo family and everyone who knew Graycen as they go through this difficult time."
The university said its student counseling services staff will be available to assist any students in need.
