Rebecca Cheptegei, a renowned Ugandan marathon runner, has tragically passed away after suffering life-threatening burns in an alleged attack by her former boyfriend. The 33-year-old athlete, who competed in Paris, was reportedly set on fire after being doused with petrol last Sunday, according to Ugandan officials.
Authorities in north-west Kenya, where Cheptegei lived and trained, stated that the attack occurred after she returned home from church. A local administrator suggested the assault stemmed from a land dispute between Cheptegei and her ex-partner, though police are still investigating the case.
In a statement, Uganda’s athletics federation expressed their sorrow over the loss of Cheptegei, condemning the act of violence and calling for justice. “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our athlete, Rebecca Cheptegei, who tragically fell victim to domestic violence. May her soul rest in peace,” the federation posted on X.
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Dr. Owen Menach, head of Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, confirmed to local media that Cheptegei succumbed to her injuries after her organs failed. While her family has yet to officially comment on her death, her father, Joseph Cheptegei, had earlier spoken out, calling the incident “the most inhumane act” he had ever witnessed and demanding justice for his daughter.
Cheptegei’s ex-boyfriend, who also suffered burns in the attack, was treated at the same hospital with less severe injuries.
This tragic incident is reminiscent of similar cases involving East African athletes Agnes Tirop and Damaris Mutua, both of whom were killed by their partners in recent years.
Earlier reports had indicated that Rebecca Cheptegei was in critical condition after suffering burns to over 75% of her body. The attack took place at her home in Eldoret, Kenya, where she had been living for training purposes.
