Sad news out of Colombia where 2x UCI World Champion Marlon Perez, 48, was murdered Thursday night.

Authorities confirmed the death of Colombian cyclist Perez from a knife stab wound to the neck as the result of a likely attempted robbery in Carmen de Viboral, Antioquia. Although emergency medical workers arrived at the scene quickly and transported Perez to hospital, unfortunately he arrived without vital signs and was pronounced dead.

After becoming UCI Junior World Champion on the velodrome in 1994 Perez turned professional, participating in two Giro d’Italia with his best finish 40th overall in 2004. After retiring in 2012 he continued riding and helped pilot paracyclist Nelson Serna to a UCI Para Cycling Road World Championship gold medal in 2017.

Upon learning of Perez’s death, Colombian Cycling Federation (FCC) recognized his achievements both nationally and internationally. “Marlon was not only a reference in Colombian cycling, but also an example of dedication, discipline and passion for sport,” the FCC posted on social media.

Antioquia Police have identified and arrested a suspect in the murder of Pérez, with the case now advancing to the Antioquia Prosector’s Office.

Photo Credit: paralympics.org

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