Police have arrested three individuals suspected of visiting the residence of world marathon record holder Kelvin Kiptum just days before his fatal accident.
The trio is currently under police custody for interrogation. The identities of the three individuals remain undisclosed as detectives continue their inquiries in Elgeyo Marakwet County, the hometown of the late athlete.
Following revelations from Kiptum’s father, Samson Cheruiyot, who raised concerns after his son’s tragic demise, the individuals were detained for questioning.
Cheruiyot had alerted authorities about four unfamiliar persons who had visited Kiptum’s home in Chepsamo village, Kaptarakwa ward, Keiyo South Constituency, Elgeyo Marakwet County, just days before the fatal accident. The investigation aims to ascertain the purpose of their visit and their relationship with the deceased.
Identification of the three suspects was made by Cheruiyot at Kaptagat Police Station, where the vehicle they used was also impounded for further examination.
Kiptum’s fatal accident occurred while he was driving from Kaptagat to Eldoret in the Rift Valley on the night of February 11. The vehicle veered off the road, colliding with a tree, resulting in the instantaneous deaths of Kiptum and his coach, Gervais Hakizimana.
The renowned athlete made headlines when he broke the world marathon record in Chicago in October, completing the race in an astonishing 2:00:35, surpassing Eliud Kipchoge’s previous record.
Despite his young age of 23 and limited marathon experience, Kiptum’s achievements were remarkable, with victories in his debut marathon in Valencia in 2022 and a subsequent win in London the following year, securing three of the fastest marathon times in history.
As the investigation continues, authorities have pledged to accord the world marathon record holder a dignified farewell befitting his status as a national hero.
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