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US authorities investigate cause of death of former Kenyan rugby coach Oloo
Felix Oloo, then Kenya Rugby 7s Lionesses coach, during a training session on October 4, 2019.
The Washington State Patrol (WSP) is investigating the tragic incident that claimed the life of former Kenyan rugby coach Felix Oloo.
The WSP is responsible for protecting the Governor of Washington and the grounds of the Washington State Capitol, the seat of government for Washington State. The WSP also provides traffic enforcement on the state's main motorways.
Oloo, fondly known as 'Mwalimu' in Kenyan rugby circles, died in the United States on Monday at the age of 41. He was reportedly hit by a car and died at the scene.
He was the former coach of the Kenya Lionesses, the country's women’s rugby team, and also played as a flanker for the Nakuru RFC team that won the Kenya Cup in 2013 and 2014.
According to a report from the Washington State Patrol, the incident occurred at 4.59am south of NE 160th Street on Interstate 405. Interstate 405, also known as I-405, is one of the busiest freeways in the US.
According to the report, a black car had stopped on the left shoulder of the freeway, just south of NE 160th Street. The passenger, 41-year-old Kenyan Felix Oloo, exited the vehicle and ran east across all five northbound lanes. The report also identified the driver and occupant of the second vehicle involved in the incident. They were uninjured.
The occupant of the second car called the authorities and cooperated with investigators at the scene.
The report states that the I-405 was blocked for over three hours after the incident.
Investigators have not yet determined the cause of the collision or explained why the vehicle stopped on the motorway. The reasons for Oloo entering the freeway and attempting to cross multiple lanes are also unclear.
Superintendents Dan Allen and Jack Warner of the Monroe Correctional Complex (MCC), where Felix Oloo worked, released a statement saying, “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Correctional Officer Felix Oloo, who joined MCC in May 2024. Before his time at MCC, Felix was a well-respected rugby coach and former player from Kenya. He was recognised for his leadership both on and off the field. Our heartfelt sympathies go out to Felix’s family and friends during this challenging time.”
A remembrance ceremony in honour of Oloo will take place on Friday May 8, 2026 at the MCC Staff Resource Centre.
Since the incident, Kenyans have taken to social media to pay tribute to Oloo.
“My sister Phyllis Achieng is one of his products. Even though she changed careers due to injury, she used to play with great tenacity. May his soul rest in peace,” Enock Oyugha wrote on X.
Makori Richini said: “I can’t stop crying...We talked for long about the Tokyo Olympics, but today you are no more. Death is so unfair—it took you at the peak of your career, doing what you loved most: coaching and nurturing rugby talent. Rest in peace, coach.”
Charity Mmbone wrote: “Rest in peace, great legend. Heaven has gained a great man. Rest in peace, Mwalimu.”
The family is holding daily meetings at 12115 Meridian Avenue South, Apartment D235, Everett, Washington State, between 6.30pm and 8.30pm, to raise funds for the repatriation of his remains to Kenya, as well as to cover his burial expenses.
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