Ugandan athlete Benjamin Kiplagat has tragically lost his life in Kenya, according to reports from the police. The 34-year-old, born in Kenya, was found dead in a car on the outskirts of Eldoret in the Rift Valley, with sources indicating he had been stabbed.
Having represented Uganda in the 3,000-meter steeplechase at multiple Olympic Games and World Championships, Kiplagat’s body was discovered in a region known for housing numerous athletes who train in its high-altitude environment.
Local police commander Stephen Okal announced that an investigation has been initiated, with officers actively pursuing leads. Kiplagat’s body exhibited a deep knife wound to the neck, strongly suggesting a stabbing.
World Athletics expressed shock and sadness at the news, extending their deepest condolences to Kiplagat’s friends, family, teammates, and fellow athletes. The governing body conveyed solidarity with those affected during this challenging time.
“World Athletics is shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of Benjamin Kiplagat,” the global athletics governing body said in a statement on X, formerly Twitter.
“We send our deepest condolences to his friends, family, teammates, and fellow athletes. Our thoughts are with them all at this difficult time.”
Peter Ogwang, the state minister for sports in Uganda, echoed the sentiments of sorrow, stating, I am saddened to hear about the death of our athlete, Benjamin Kiplagat who was reportedly murdered in Kenya. I send my deepest condolences to his family, Ugandans, and the entire East Africa for the loss of such a budding athlete who has on several occasions represented us on the international scene. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
Media reports suggested that Benjamin Kiplagat had been training in the Eldoret area before intending to participate in athletics competitions in Uganda.
With an illustrious running career spanning about 18 years, Kiplagat secured the silver medal in the 3,000-meter steeplechase at the 2008 World Junior Championships and bronze at the Africa Championships in 2012. He also reached the semi-finals of the 2012 Olympic Games in London and competed in Rio in 2016.
