Faith Kipyegon amongst hundreds to view Kelvin Kiptum’s body at Iten Grounds ahead of his burial

Hundreds of mourners flocked the Iten Sports Grounds to view the body of the late marathon star, Kelvin Kiptum ahead of his burial on Friday.

Elgeyo Marakwet governor Wisley Rotich, and his Deputy, Grace Cheserek were among the most prominent people to lead them in viewing the body, as well as athletes including Faith Kipyegon.

The purpose of the viewing was in preparation for Kiptum's burial scheduled for Saturday.

A detailed autopsy conducted by Chief Government Pathologist Johansen Oduor on Wednesday revealed that Kiptum succumbed to severe head, spine, and rib injuries.

 The tragic incident occurred at Flax junction along Eldoret-Eldama Ravine road on February 11, where Kiptum suffered skull fractures and broken ribs.

Pathologist Johansen Oduor specified that the impact of the accident resulted in fractures on both sides of Kiptum's ribs. 

On the left side, the first, second, and third rib bones were affected, while the right side bore fractures in the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and seventh ribs.

Additionally, the examination disclosed serious injuries to Kiptum's spinal cord. Samples collected from the late athlete's body will undergo toxicology analysis to determine if he was intoxicated at the time of the accident.

Speaking from Eldoret Hospital morgue, where the autopsy took place, Oduor highlighted that the analysis of these samples will provide crucial information about the circumstances leading to the accident. Furthermore, the postmortem examination uncovered an injury to Kiptum's lungs.

Kiptum's father, Samson Cheruiyot, along with several relatives and friends, witnessed the postmortem examination, preparing for the athlete's burial on Friday.

In the aftermath of the tragic crash, the only survivor, Sharon Chepkurui Kosgei, a 24-year-old, revealed details to investigators. 

She explained that Kiptum lost control of the vehicle, prompting her to alert him as the car veered off the road. 

Despite her warnings, the vehicle accelerated, landing in a ditch before hitting a wall. Initially, reports suggested the car had hit a tree after veering off the road. 

The investigation continues as authorities seek to understand the circumstances surrounding the unfortunate incident.

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