Farmington, New Mexico (ABC4) — A 21-year-old missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from Salem, Utah, died in his sleep Saturday while serving in New Mexico, according to church officials.
Caleb Gene Martin, 21, died unexpectedly in his sleep on January 3, 2026. The cause of death has not been determined, the LDS Church said in a news release. He had been on assignment in Farmington, New Mexico.
On January 3, 2026, 21-year-old Caleb Gene Martin died unexpectedly in his sleep. The cause of death has not yet been determined. (Courtesy: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints)
“It is with profound sadness that we share the news of the death of a young missionary of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,” the release said. “Elder Caleb Jean Martin, 21, serving in the Farmington Mission, New Mexico, died unexpectedly in his sleep on January 3, 2026. The cause of death has not been determined. An autopsy has been planned.”
Martin has been serving the church since May 2024.
“We offer our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and fellow missionaries,” church officials said. “We pray that they will find comfort and strength in their faith in the gospel of Jesus Christ and feel the love of their Savior as they commemorate Elder Martin’s life and dedicated missionary service.”
No further information is available at this time.
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