Driver Arrested After Fatal Hit-and-Run of 114-Year-Old Marathon Icon

Mon Sep 15 2025 16:41:37 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

A hit-and-run incident has led to the tragic death of Fauja Singh, the world’s oldest marathon runner, with police apprehending the driver involved.

In a shocking turn of events, police in Punjab, India, have arrested a man in connection with the hit-and-run death of Fauja Singh, the world's oldest marathon runner, who was 114 years old. The accused, 26-year-old Amritpal Singh Dhillon, allegedly struck Singh with his speeding SUV while the runner was out for a walk in his birth village of Beas Pind. Singh was critically injured and later succumbed to his injuries at a local hospital. Known for his remarkable achievements, Singh began his running career at age 89 and set multiple records, including being the first person over 100 to finish a full marathon. Although Guinness World Records could not officially recognize his title due to lack of documented proof of his birth, Singh's legacy perseveres through his inspiring story. Following the incident, Singh's running club plans to honor him with events celebrating his life in London.

In a tragic incident that has shocked fans worldwide, police in Punjab, India, have detained a man held responsible for the hit-and-run death of Fauja Singh, a celebrated marathon runner and believed to be the oldest in the world.

The incident occurred when Fauja Singh, who achieved fame by completing marathons, was struck by a speeding vehicle allegedly driven by Amritpal Singh Dhillon. Singh was critically injured during his routine walk and passed away at the hospital shortly after. Known for running nine marathons after turning 89, Singh's life was remarkable. The Guinness World Records, however, did not officially acknowledge him as the oldest marathon runner due to documentation issues surrounding his birth. In the wake of this tragedy, plans are underway to celebrate Singh's achievements and honor his memory through upcoming events by his running club in London.

The legacy of Fauja Singh, who began running at 89 and inspired many with his record-breaking feats, will live on in the hearts of his supporters and followers worldwide.