Fauja Singh, aged 114 and regarded as the world's oldest marathon runner, suffered fatal injuries in a hit-and-run incident in Punjab. The alleged driver has been arrested, as investigations reveal that immediate medical assistance may have saved Singh’s life.
Arrest Made in Hit-and-Run Death of Fauja Singh, World’s Oldest Marathon Runner
Arrest Made in Hit-and-Run Death of Fauja Singh, World’s Oldest Marathon Runner
A driver has been apprehended following the tragic hit-and-run incident that claimed the life of Fauja Singh, a pioneering marathon runner celebrated for his achievements into his 100s.
Indian police have taken into custody Amritpal Singh Dhillon, the driver accused of fatally striking Fauja Singh, the venerable marathon runner known for his historic feats. The tragic incident occurred in Punjab as Singh, at the remarkable age of 114, was enjoying a leisurely afternoon walk. He suffered critical injuries and sadly passed away shortly after being transported to the hospital.
On Monday, Singh was reportedly struck by a speeding white SUV, which police later recovered as part of their investigation. According to authorities, the collision took place near Singh’s birthplace in Beas Pind, close to Jalandhar city, as he attempted to cross the road. Eyewitnesses quickly took the injured athlete to the hospital, but he could not be saved.
Reports from Indian media indicate that the life of the respected runner could potentially have been spared had the 26-year-old driver not fled the scene. Fauja Singh was not only an exceptional runner but also a global symbol of resilience, having set multiple records in marathon running across different age categories after the age of 100. Notably, he achieved the status of the oldest man to complete a marathon at 100 during the 2011 Toronto Marathon, yet regulatory body Guinness World Records could not officially recognize him as such due to the absence of a birth certificate from his birth year of 1911.
Despite these bureaucratic challenges, Singh received accolades for his sporting achievements, including a congratulatory letter from Queen Elizabeth on his 100th birthday. His involvement in marathon running was catalyzed by personal tragedies, including the loss of his wife and his youngest son, leading him to take up running as an emotional outlet in his later years.
In London, Singh became a cherished local figure, co-founding a running club called Sikhs In The City, which continues to promote fitness and community engagement. Upcoming events in Ilford, where Singh had resided since 1992, are set to honor his extraordinary life and legacy. Singh's story emphasizes the remarkable transformation from a weak young boy, often ridiculed in his village, to an international marathon legend celebrated around the world. His fame soared when he featured in an influential Adidas campaign alongside iconic athletes like Muhammad Ali, cementing his status as an inspiration to many.
