Agnes Tirop, who finished fourth in the 5000m final at the Tokyo Olympics earlier this year, has died.
The long-distance runner was found dead at her home in Iten, Athletics Kenya said in a statement.
They say 'Tirop was found dead at their home allegedly stabbed by her husband'.
Just last month, Tirop smashed the women's 10km world record.
Her time of 30:01 in Germany was more 28 seconds quicker than the previous record, set in 2002.
The 25-year-old was also a bronze medalist at the 2017 and 2019 World Championships in the 10000m event.
She won the 2015 World Cross Country Championships.
There has been an outpouring of grief following the news of her death, with Athletics Kenya saying they were 'distraught' at the news.
"Athletics Kenya are this afternoon distraught to learn about the untimely death of World 10000m bronze medalist Agnes Tirop.
"Tirop was found dead at their home in Iten this morning after she was allegedly stabbed by her husband.
"We are still working to unearth more details surrounding her demise.
"Kenya has lost a jewel who was one of the fastest-rising athletics giants on the international stage, thanks to her eye-catching performances on the track.
"We pray that God may grant strength to family and friends at this difficult time."
— Athletics Kenya (@athletics_kenya) October 13, 2021
