Police investigate health issues among California Half Marathon runners
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Nov 10, 2026, 10:09 AM
Last updated Nov 10, 2026

At least 25 participants of the Santa Barbara Half Marathon were hospitalized on Sunday due to unusual symptoms. The event, which saw approximately 7,500 runners competing along the Pacific Ocean, prompted the Santa Barbara Police Department to open an investigation following reports from local hospitals. Race organizers attributed the health issues to heat and dehydration, as temperatures reached 80 degrees Fahrenheit (around 27 degrees Celsius) by 10 a.m. A total of 15 individuals were transported from the medical tent to hospitals, with 18 discharged by Monday morning and others in stable condition. The event's medical team reported treating numerous cases of dehydration and overheating.
- •25 participants hospitalized with unusual symptoms from the Santa Barbara Half Marathon.
- •Event attracted around 7,500 runners competing over 13.1 miles.
- •Police investigation initiated following reports of health issues.
- •Temperatures reached 80 degrees Fahrenheit, unusual for November.
- •Race organizers believe illness linked to heat and dehydration.
- 10:09 AMYahoo Sports — Police launch investigation after 25 California Half Marathon runners rushed to hospital with mystery illness
"Roughly 7,500 people participated in the event, which spanned 13.1 miles along the Pacific Ocean
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