The two are said to have been heading home when they were attacked by unknown assailants. [Photo/NewIndianExpress]
Half-marathon athlete Richard Tirop Kesio and his friend, Mathew Kimutai Kemboi have been found murdered in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu.
Bodies of the two were discovered on Thursday morning, with the injuries sustained clearly indicating it was a brutal murder.
The two were said to have been headed home before they were accosted and murdered by unknown assailants.
“We woke up today to the shocking news that two of our fellow residents here in Kipkorgot have been murdered. One of them, Tirop, is a family man, while his close friend Kimutai comes from the Fluorspar region,” narrated Kenneth Kipkoech, a resident of Kipkorgot as quoted by Citizen.
“We are filled with grief and shock at the brutal manner in which they were killed, such has never been witnessed in this area before,” added Mr. Kipkoech.
Eldoret East OCPD Richard Omanga confirmed the incident, saying the deceased had deep multiple injuries on their heads.
The aim of the murder is yet to be established, with police launching investigations.
Tirop was staying in the USA, before moving back to Eldoret in 2015, where he has been staying since then.
He is remembered for winning the Barbados Marathon in the USA in the years 2010 – 2011, the Half Marathon in 2012, 2013 and in 2014 and the 10 KM race in 2011.
Their bodies were taken to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital Mortuary.