SUV That Hit and Killed Marathon Legend Fauja Singh Identified by Police

A day after the tragic death of legendary marathon runner Fauja Singh, police have identified the vehicle involved in the hit-and-run accident. The incident took place on the Jalandhar-Pathankot highway. CCTV footage from the area showed a white Toyota Fortuner, registered in Punjab, near the spot where the accident happened. The vehicle allegedly hit 114-year-old Fauja Singh and fled. The search for the driver is still underway, and multiple police teams have been formed to track him down.

End of a Legendary Life

Fauja Singh, who gained worldwide fame as the oldest marathon runner, sustained severe head injuries in the accident and later died at the hospital. Born on April 1, 1911, he was famously known as the "Turbaned Tornado" across the globe. His life spanned more than a century of history, including both World Wars, pandemics, and the Partition of India.

Running Into History

Fauja moved to England in the 1990s after the loss of his wife and son. At 89, he started running in competitive events, making his debut at the London Marathon in 2000. His determination and spirit made headlines around the world. He later ran in marathons held in New York, Toronto, and other major cities. Singh also carried the Olympic torch in both the 2004 Athens and 2012 London Games and featured in a sports advertisement with icons like David Beckham and Muhammad Ali.

In 2012, Malaysia held the “Chardikala Run” to honour him, and he was awarded the BrandLaureate Award. A year later, he completed the Hong Kong Marathon and announced his retirement at age 102, although he continued to run for charity.

Tributes Pour In

His death sparked grief across the country. Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised him as a “remarkable athlete” who inspired generations to stay fit. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge called his journey a beacon of resilience for people of all ages. Fauja Singh’s legacy will live on—not only as a record-breaking athlete but also as a symbol of unstoppable human spirit.