ELDORET, Kenya – Olympic athlete Benjamin Kiplagat was found deceased with a knife wound to his neck in Eldoret, Kenya. The Kenyan-born runner, who represented Uganda in international competitions, was discovered in a car on the outskirts of the Rift Valley town, which is a popular training area for many athletes due to its high altitude.
Kiplagat, 34, had a successful running career spanning 18 years, winning a silver medal in the 3,000m steeplechase at the 2008 World Junior Championships and a bronze at the Africa Championships in 2012. His tragic death comes after the killing of Kenyan distance running star Agnes Tirop in October 2021, who was also found stabbed to death near Eldoret.
Ugandan authorities are now investigating the shocking incident, with local police commander Stephen Okal confirming that an investigation has been launched and officers are pursuing leads. Media reports suggest that Kiplagat had been training in Eldoret before he went to Uganda to compete in athletics competitions. The presence of a deep knife wound to his neck indicates that he was stabbed.
This unfortunate event brings to light the vulnerability of athletes, even in areas known for their sports training facilities. The tragic deaths of both Kiplagat and Tirop have shaken the running community, raising concerns about the safety and security of athletes, particularly in the regions where they train and compete.
Both Kiplagat and Tirop’s deaths have left a void in the running world, and their legacies will undoubtedly be remembered by fans and fellow athletes alike. As investigations continue into both cases, the running community remains in mourning, reflecting on the lives and careers of these talented individuals. The sport has lost two remarkable talents in a short span of time, leaving many questioning the safety of athletes in the areas where they dedicate their lives to training and competing.