London marathon winner and world record holder Kelvin Kiptum is dead
The Kenyan long distance runner was killed alongside his coach Garvais Hakizimana in a car crash.
This is the Toyota Premio Kelvin Kiptum was driving before he lost control, hit a tree and landed in a ditch
He was aged just 24.
kiptum won the London Marathon in April last year and broke the course record, crossing the line in two hours one minute and 25 seconds.
Just months later he smashed the world marathon record in Chicago, completing the 26 mile race in just two hours and 35 seconds.
International track federation World Athletics had only ratified his records last week.
Kenya’s former prime minister Raila Odinga confirmed Kiptum had died on X, writing: “Devastating news as we mourn the loss of a remarkable individual, Kelvin Kiptum, World Record holder and Kenyan athletics icon.
“Together with his coach, they tragically passed on in an accident tonight.”
“My deepest condolences to his loved ones, friends, and the entire athletics fraternity.
London Marathon organisers said: “We are shocked and deeply saddened to hear the terrible news of the death of marathon world record holder Kelvin Kiptum and his coach, Gervais Hakizimana.
“The thoughts of everyone at the TCS London Marathon are with Kelvin’s and Gervais’ family and friends.”
World Athletics President Seb Coe said: “On behalf of all World Athletics we send our deepest condolences to their families, friends, teammates and the Kenyan nation.
“It was only earlier this week in Chicago, the place where Kelvin set his extraordinary marathon World Record, that I was able to officially ratify his historic time.
“An incredible athlete leaving an incredible legacy, we will miss him dearly.”
Local reports state that a second passenger, a lady identified as Sharon Kosgey, was in the car at the time of the crash.
She survived the impact but with serious injuries, and was rushed to Racecourse Hospital for medical attention.
The bodies of Kiptum and Hakiziman were taken to the hospital’s mortuary.
Elgeyo Marakwet Police Commander Petr Mulinge confirmed the accident took place at approximately 11pm (8pm GMT) on Sunday.
According to Mulinge, Kiptum had lost control of the vehicle, veering off the road and landing in a ditch about 60 metres away before colliding with a tree.
He added that Kiptum and Hakizimana “died on the spot”
