American dies during Perak Sultan's birthday race

An American citizen died of a heart attack while participating in the Sultan of Perak Sultan Azlan Shah's birthday celebration run today.

Paolo Valsecchi, 46, who was running along with his girlfriend and a male friend in their 30's, fell during the race in Jalan Istana here at about 7.30am, said Kuala Kangsar police chief ACP Abdul Ghafar Mohamad.

"The man, who was given a respiratory assistance for 40 minutes, was pronounced dead at the Kuala Kangsar Hospital at 9.45am," Abdul Ghafar told reporters at the hospital.

The body was sent to the Raja Permaisuri Bainun Hospital for a post-mortem.

It is learnt that the man had been living in Malaysia for four years and worked in the logistics industry in Kuala Lumpur.

Meanwhile, the victim's friend, who declined to be identified, said Valsecchi had complained of chest pains while running.

"About 15 to 30 seconds later, Paolo suddenly collapsed and had difficulty breathing. A policeman nearby rushed him to the hospital," he said.

Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir and his wife, Datin Seri Saripah Zulkifli paid their last respect to the victim at the hospital.

Zambry and the Regent of Perak Raja Dr Nazrin Shah also took part in the race together with about 2,500 participants.

Also present was Raja Nazrin's wife, Raja Puan Besar of Perak Tuanku Zara Salim.