Amritsar, July 16, 2025 : Fauja Singh, the legendary centenarian marathon runner celebrated across the globe as the ‘Turbaned Tornado’, tragically passed away on Monday in a hit-and-run incident near Jalandhar, Punjab. He was 113 years old. An NRI from Canada has been arrested in connection with the fatal accident, which has sparked widespread grief and outrage across the sporting world and the Punjabi community.

According to the Punjab Police, the incident occurred early Monday morning when Fauja Singh was on his routine morning walk near his ancestral village. Eyewitnesses reported a speeding SUV hitting the former marathoner and fleeing the scene. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but succumbed to his injuries shortly after.

The accused, identified as Harjot Singh Sandhu, 35, a Canadian citizen visiting family in Punjab, was apprehended in Ludhiana later that day. Police sources revealed that CCTV footage from nearby shops and toll plazas helped track down the vehicle. Preliminary investigations suggest that Sandhu was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident. He has been booked under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code, including culpable homicide not amounting to murder and drunk driving.

Fauja Singh rose to fame globally after taking up long-distance running in his 80s. He went on to complete several marathons, including the London and Toronto marathons, and was hailed as a symbol of perseverance, discipline, and Sikh pride. Though he retired from competitive running in 2013 at the age of 102, he remained an inspirational figure in global athletic circles and a motivational speaker until his last days.

Tributes have poured in from around the world. Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted, “Fauja Singh Ji was the embodiment of strength and resilience. His life will continue to inspire generations. Deeply saddened by his tragic demise.” Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also expressed his condolences, calling Singh “a beacon of cross-cultural inspiration and an icon of healthy aging.”

In Punjab, villagers gathered at Singh’s home to pay respects, chanting prayers and recounting his remarkable achievements. “He showed the world what the human spirit can achieve. His loss is immeasurable,” said Gurpreet Kaur, a neighbor and longtime admirer.

Singh’s family has demanded strict legal action against the accused and called for road safety reforms in rural Punjab. His cremation is scheduled for Wednesday, and is expected to be attended by thousands, including dignitaries, athletes, and members of the international Sikh community.

The life of Fauja Singh was not just about breaking records, it was about breaking stereotypes. In his passing, India has lost not just a runner, but a living legend.