David Torrence, 31, an American-Peruvian middle-distance runner, was found dead at 7:30 a.m. in a Swimming Pool by the staff of an apartment complex in Scottsdale, AZ Central reported. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Life of the champion

David Torrence was the active indoor American record holder in 1000 meters. He was born in Japan but grew up in Los Angeles. He studied at Loyola High School and went to the Univerisity of California, Berkeley.

Recently Torrence left his home in California and had been training in Arizona for some weeks, according to the police.

Torrence won second place at the World Relay Championships in 2014. He ran for the US Olympic team but recently chose running for Peru, the homeland of his mother, explaining that his aim was to inspire a young generation of new athletes. The runner trained in multiple training groups.

In the beginning of summer 2017, Torrence made national records in the mile run for Peru and the 1,500-meter race, according to AZ Central. The young man always spoke his mind and strongly rejected taking vitamin injections, LetsRun noted. He received criticism and gratitude after the controversy with Bernard Lagat in summer 2016.

Torrence took part in an anti-doping cause, and last year he helped in an IAAF investigation about the case of coach Jama Aden for the possession of PEDs.

According to the police statement, there were no obvious signs of foul play, BBC reported. Emergency services claimed that there were no suspicious circumstances. Firefighters removed the Olympic runner's body from the pool.

The Medical Examiner's office in Maricopa County will continue to investigate the cause of Torrence's death, the Washington Post reported.

Reaction in the world of sport

Numerous fans showed their grief on social media. His friends and other athletes noted that he inspired the running community with his enthusiasm, versatility, fearlessness, and compassion. The staff members of the victim said that he was one of the kindest athletes.

Torrence's friend Kyle Merber tweeted that the Hoka One One Long Island Mile men's race will be re-named in honor of him.

American silver runner Leo Manzano noted that Torrence had been his team-mate, saying that " My heart goes out to him and his family."

Olympian Nate Brannen said that he was really shocked to hear the news of David Torrence's death. "Great guy and friend. He will be deeply missed," he said.
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