As the government prepares to bid a solemn farewell to the late marathoner Kevin Kiptum in a ceremony befitting a hero, recent revelations shed light on the circumstances surrounding the tragic accident that claimed his life.
The unfortunate incident unfolded on Sunday, February 11, resulting in the untimely demise of both Kiptum and his coach. A lone survivor, a woman, endured injuries during the ordeal.
Swift medical attention was provided to the injured female passenger, and on Monday, February 12, she received treatment for soft tissue injuries at the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital. After a successful recovery, she was discharged on Wednesday, February 14.
Following her discharge, the survivor offered a statement to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in Iten, providing crucial insights for the ongoing investigation.
In an update provided by DCI officials on Thursday, February 15, progress in the case was announced. “Yesterday, we recorded statements from Sharon Kosgei,” they stated. “The investigation is ongoing, and upon completion, we will share our findings with the public.”
According to Kosgei’s statement, she witnessed the vehicle veering off the road and attempted to alert Kiptum. Unfortunately, her efforts were in vain, leading to the tragic accident.
Asenath Cheruto, the widow of the late marathoner, revealed that Kiptum had complained of a headache prior to the accident, speculating that he may have taken medication for it.
Cheruto recounted their final moments together, recalling their conversation on Saturday, February 11, at 4 am, as Kiptum departed for training at the Fluorspar camp. Throughout the weekend, they communicated, with Kiptum expressing exhaustion from training and disappointment over canceling their Sunday plans due to his headache.
Tragically, Cheruto received unexpected news late on Sunday night. Despite anticipating a call from Kiptum during halftime of an English Premier League match, she was instead awakened by her mother-in-law, who informed her of her husband’s vehicle being found in a forest area in Kaptagat.
