Autopsy Confirms Marathoner Kelvin Kiptum's Cause Of Death

 

Government Pathologist Dr. Johansen Oduor during a past press address. Photo/Courtesy

In a hurry? Here’s a quick summary…

• Marathon World Record Holder Kelvin Kiptum's cause of death revealed by Government Pathologist Dr. Johansen Oduor:

• Late athlete died from severe head trauma sustained in a car crash, with extensive skull fractures at the base of his skull.

• Ribs on both sides also fractured, alongside injuries to the lungs.

• Post-mortem conducted at Eldoret Hospital mortuary; samples collected for further analysis to investigate any external factors contributing to his demise.

• Family expresses satisfaction with autopsy results.

• Funeral arrangements include transfer of the body to Naiberi, Jerunya, for prayers at Chepsamo Primary School where Kiptum studied and his village.

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Autopsy Confirms Marathoner Kelvin Kiptum's Cause Of Death

Government Pathologist Dr. Johansen Oduor has unveiled the cause of death of the late Marathon World Record Holder Kelvin Kiptum. 

Addressing reporters after conducting a post-mortem at Eldoret Hospital mortuary, Dr. Oduor revealed that Kiptum succumbed to severe head trauma sustained during a car crash. The examination showed extensive skull fractures at the base of his skull, which proved fatal.

Dr. Oduor elaborated on the injuries, stating, "The late Kelvin had severe head injuries. There were severe skull fractures which were mainly at the base of the skull and the spinal cord had intruded into the canal cavity because of that." Additionally, fractures were detected on both sides of Kiptum's ribs, with injuries also noted in his lungs. 

These findings strongly suggested that the injuries were consistent with those typically caused by a motor vehicle accident.

Biological samples were collected from the deceased for further analysis to ascertain whether any external factors contributed to his death. 

Dr. Oduor emphasized the need for a full toxicological analysis to explore all possible influences on Kiptum's demise.

The family of Kelvin Kiptum expressed satisfaction with the autopsy results. Philip Kiplagat, the family spokesperson, stated, "We are pleased with the findings of the results. I witnessed the whole process which started at around 11 am and ended around 1:40 pm. We are now waiting for the samples they have said will be taken for analysis."

Regarding funeral arrangements, the family announced that the body would be transported to Naiberi, Jerunya, for prayers at Chepsamo Primary School, where Kiptum had been a student, and in his village. 

Kiptum, along with his coach Gervais Hakizimana, tragically lost their lives in a road accident on February 11 at Kaptagat area along Elgeyo Marakwet-Ravine road.

Kelvin Kiptum's remarkable achievements in athletics, including breaking the men's world record in October, have left a lasting legacy. 

He is set to be laid to rest on Friday, with dignitaries, including President William Ruto, expected to attend. The funeral, initially scheduled for Saturday, was rescheduled due to President Ruto's commitments.