Two runners participating in the "Khibiny" ultramarathon in the Murmansk region have died, as confirmed by regional Governor Andrei Chibis.
Officials attribute the fatalities to extreme weather conditions during the event. Reports from Mash indicate hypothermia as the cause of death. Organizers halted the race and evacuated all participants, with rescue efforts now concluded.
Governor Chibis expressed heartfelt condolences to the victims' families on behalf of the region's residents. He noted that a private company organized the event and pledged a thorough investigation into the incident.
Investigators identified the deceased as a 1963-born St. Petersburg resident and a 1978-born Moscow resident. Authorities have initiated a criminal case regarding alleged safety violations in service provision.