Residents of Manguset /Chelilis village in Kericho County have joined hands to support the family Aaron Kiplangat Kemboi who suddenly passed away during school athletic competitions.
The sudden death of the 16-year old Kiplangat shocked schoolmates, teachers, and the entire village since there was no signs of any grave sickness.
The junior secondary student at Chelilis School collapsed and died moments after winning a shot put competition during the school’s sports day.
Witnesses said that he had emerged victorious in the field event after which he suddenly lost consciousness.
Some teachers in the company of some students quickly rushed him to Chelilis Clinic, where he received first aid before being transferred to Litein Hospital, where he was referred to Kapkatet Hospital, but he was pronounced dead on arrival.
“At first, we thought it was just exhaustion, but when he did not wake up, we knew something was wrong,” said Kipkorir one of classmates.
His father, Samuel Cheruiyot, expressed deep sorrow, adding that the family is waiting for postmortem results to determine the cause of death.
He revealed that Kiplang’at had a history of epilepsy but said they cannot conclude whether the condition contributed to his death.
“We are in pain and want answers about what happened to our son,” Cheruiyot said.
The school administration has also mourned the loss, describing Kiplangat as a disciplined and hardworking student who was very passionate about sports.
The untimely death has robbed village a promising young athlete.
By Gilbert Mutai