World marathon record holder Kelvin Kiptum died alongside his Rwandan coach in a grisly car along the Elgeyo Marakwet-Ravine road on Sunday night February 11, 2024.
The 24-year-old athlete was driving the ill-fated vehicle heading to Eldoret when the accident occurred.
“The accident happened around 11 pm. The car had three occupants, two died on the spot while one was taken to hospital,” Elgeyo Marakwet County Commandant Peter Mulinge said.
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Azimio leader Raila Odinga mourned the death of the men's marathon world record holder.
Raila said on X that the country had lost a true hero and was mourning a remarkable individual and Kenyan athletics icon.
“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. Our nation grieves the profound loss of a true hero,” Raila wrote.
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. 1/2 pic.twitter.com/1Dmgyyhsk4— Raila Odinga (@RailaOdinga) February 11, 2024
Athletics Kenya also mourned Kiptum’s death in a statement on social media.
“Announcement - Passing on of Kelvin Kiptum.
“Athletics Kenya is deeply saddened to announce the passing on of the World Marathon record holder Kelvin Kiptum and his Rwandese coach Garvais Hakizimana.
“The two died in a road accident at Kaptagat area along the Elgeyo Marakwet-Ravine road.
“Our condolences goes out to their families and the entire athletics community during this difficult time,” AK said.
Announcement - Passing on of Kelvin Kiptum.
Athletics Kenya is deeply saddened to announce the passing on of the World Marathon record holder Kelvin Kiptum and his Rwandese coach Garvais Hakizimana. pic.twitter.com/4GMWEqI1Ui— Athletics Kenya (@athletics_kenya) February 11, 2024
Sports Cabinet Secretary (CS) Ababu Namwamba said he was gutted by Kelvin Kiptum's untimely death.
"Devastatingly sickening!! Kenya has lost a special gem. Lost for words..," Ababu wrote on X.
