Kenya mourns the loss of Kelvin Kiptum, the world marathon record holder, and his coach, Gervais Hakizimana, following a fatal car crash in the country’s southwest region.
The devastating incident occurred near Kaptagat, an area renowned as a training base for distance runners. Kiptum, aged 24, and Hakizimana, 37, lost their lives in the tragic accident on Sunday, February 11.
Reports indicate that the vehicle, carrying the two athletes and a female passenger identified as Sharon Chepkemoi, 32, veered off the road, crashed into a ditch, and struck a tree. While Chepkemoi survived the ordeal and was rushed to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret for treatment, Kiptum and Hakizimana succumbed to their injuries at the scene.
Kenneth Kimaiyo, one of the first responders at the crash site, recounted the harrowing details of the accident. He described finding Kiptum’s lifeless body trapped under the wreckage, while Hakizimana was discovered alive but severely injured nearby. Despite efforts to save him, Hakizimana tragically passed away shortly after.
According to Jackson Tuwei, President of Athletics Kenya, the vehicle suffered extensive damage, indicating the severity of the crash. The bodies of the deceased were transported to the hospital for autopsy procedures, pending family notification and official agreements.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves throughout the Kenyan athletics community and beyond. Lord Sebastian Coe, among others, has offered condolences and tributes to Kiptum, acknowledging his remarkable talent and contributions to the sport.
Police commander Peter Mulinge confirmed the identities of the victims and stated that the investigation into the accident is underway. The vehicle involved has been towed to a local police station for further examination.
Kelvin Kiptum’s untimely death has left a profound void in the world of marathon running, casting a somber shadow over the athletic community as it mourns the loss of one of its brightest talents.
Tragic Car Crash Claims Life of World Marathon Record Holder Kelvin Kiptum, 24, and Coach
Kenya mourns the loss of Kelvin Kiptum, the world marathon record holder, and his coach, Gervais Hakizimana, following a fatal car crash in the country’s southwest region.
The devastating incident occurred near Kaptagat, an area renowned as a training base for distance runners. Kiptum, aged 24, and Hakizimana, 37, lost their lives in the tragic accident on Sunday, February 11.
Reports indicate that the vehicle, carrying the two athletes and a female passenger identified as Sharon Chepkemoi, 32, veered off the road, crashed into a ditch, and struck a tree. While Chepkemoi survived the ordeal and was rushed to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret for treatment, Kiptum and Hakizimana succumbed to their injuries at the scene.
Kenneth Kimaiyo, one of the first responders at the crash site, recounted the harrowing details of the accident. He described finding Kiptum’s lifeless body trapped under the wreckage, while Hakizimana was discovered alive but severely injured nearby. Despite efforts to save him, Hakizimana tragically passed away shortly after.
According to Jackson Tuwei, President of Athletics Kenya, the vehicle suffered extensive damage, indicating the severity of the crash. The bodies of the deceased were transported to the hospital for autopsy procedures, pending family notification and official agreements.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves throughout the Kenyan athletics community and beyond. Lord Sebastian Coe, among others, has offered condolences and tributes to Kiptum, acknowledging his remarkable talent and contributions to the sport.
Police commander Peter Mulinge confirmed the identities of the victims and stated that the investigation into the accident is underway. The vehicle involved has been towed to a local police station for further examination.
Kelvin Kiptum’s untimely death has left a profound void in the world of marathon running, casting a somber shadow over the athletic community as it mourns the loss of one of its brightest talents.
