Rebecca Cheptegei, a 33-year-old Ugandan marathon runner, has passed away following a brutal attack by her former boyfriend.
Cheptegei, who recently competed in the Paris Olympics, suffered severe burns when her ex-partner doused her with petrol and set her on fire.
The tragic incident occurred on Sunday as Cheptegei returned home from church in north-west Kenya, where she lived and trained.
Local authorities reported that the attack was linked to a dispute over a piece of land between Cheptegei and her ex-boyfriend.
Police are currently investigating the incident, which has raised concerns about the rising violence against female athletes in Kenya.
Cheptegei’s father, Joseph Cheptegei, expressed his grief, describing his daughter as “very supportive” and calling on the Kenyan government to ensure justice.
Dr. Owen Menach, head of Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, confirmed that Cheptegei’s condition worsened, leading to organ failure and her subsequent death.
RIP, Rebecca Cheptegei, an incredible, talented, strong & beautiful woman, who was also an Olympian runner. Domestic abuse can happen to anyone, at any time. It doesnโt matter who you are. She was a powerhouse of a woman & her murderer can NEVER take that from her. Be at peace๐๏ธ pic.twitter.com/PX1iS3PWeL
โ ๐๐ฑ๐ช๐ป๐ต๐ธ๐ฝ๐ฝ๐ฎ (@charlotteukcity) September 5, 2024
In a statement on social media, Uganda’s athletics federation condemned the violence and expressed their sorrow, urging for justice for the fallen athlete. “We are deeply saddened by the loss of our athlete, Rebecca Cheptegei, who was a victim of domestic violence,” the federation wrote.
Cheptegei’s former boyfriend, who also sustained burns in the incident, remains in intensive care.
His condition is reported to be improving. Local police chief Jeremiah ole Kosiom confirmed that neighbors heard the couple arguing before the attack, and witnesses saw the boyfriend pouring liquid on Cheptegei before setting her ablaze.