WASHINGTON, Feb 12, (Agencies): Kelvin Kiptum, the holder of the marathon world record, tragically passed away at the age of 24 in a car accident in western Kenya on Sunday. Unfortunately, Kiptum's coach, Gervais Hakizimana, also lost his life in the same accident.

The news prompted a heartfelt response from World Athletics president Sebastian Coe, who expressed shock and deep sadness over the devastating loss. In a statement shared on social media, Coe conveyed condolences to the families, friends, teammates, and the entire Kenyan nation affected by this tragedy.

Coe reflected on the recent ratification of Kiptum's extraordinary marathon world record in Chicago, acknowledging the incredible athlete's significant legacy. He concluded the statement by expressing the collective mourning within the athletic community, stating, "An incredible athlete leaving an incredible legacy, we will miss him dearly."