Police probe death of Peru-based Kenyan athlete in Iten

 

Security officers in Elgeiyo Marakwet have launched investigations into the death of a Peru-based Kenya marathoner.

Hosea Kiplagat is said to have suddenly collapsed and died Monday evening in Iten while walking home from a shopping centre.

He is said to have been in the company of his year-old son when the incident occurred.

Elgeyo Marakwet Police Commander Peter Mulinge said they received a report about the incident from the area assistant chief.

“Mindilwo assistant chief reported the incident to us of a man was who walking with his son from a shopping centre before he collapsed and died. Eyewitnesses said he sat down and complained of chest pains before he died," Mulinge said.

Kiplagat was in the country for a short holiday before returning to Peru to prepare for a race set for April.

His brother, Anderson Kemboi said he arrived in the country two months ago from Peru.

Kemboi stated that he was in the process of completing his house in Iten before heading to Kapsait Athletics Training Camp in Kapsowar where he normally trains.

“We are saddened by the sudden death of our brother. He has always been in good health and never complained of anything,” he told the press.

He leaves behind a wife and child.

His body is lying at the Iten County Referral Hospital mortuary awaiting a post-mortem.

Some of the athletes who have since condoled with his family described him as hardworking.

"He was a good man and always smiled at everyone he met. It is so sad that we have lost him,” Judith Korir, the 2022 World Marathon silver medalist said.

She said he started training with her in Kaptagat before they both shifted to Kapsait.

BY FELIX KIPKEMOI