Nairobi, Kenya — Rebecca Cheptegei, a 33-year-old Ugandan marathon runner who competed in the Paris Olympics, has tragically died after being set on fire by her former boyfriend, according to Ugandan officials. The attack occurred on Sunday, leaving the athlete with severe burns, which she succumbed to days later.
Authorities in northwest Kenya, where Cheptegei lived and trained, reported that she was targeted shortly after returning home from church. A report by a local administrator suggests the attack was linked to a dispute over a piece of land between the athlete and her ex-partner. Police have launched an investigation into the incident.
The tragic death of Cheptegei has raised alarm over the rising cases of violence against female athletes in Kenya, several of which have led to fatalities.
In a statement, Uganda’s athletics federation expressed their sorrow: “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our athlete, Rebecca Cheptegei, early this morning who tragically fell victim to domestic violence. As a federation, we condemn such acts and call for justice. May her soul rest in peace.”
Cheptegei’s family has not yet confirmed her death. Still, Dr. Owen Menach, the head of Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, where she was receiving treatment, told local media that she passed away after all her organs failed.
Her ex-boyfriend, who was also burned during the altercation, remains in intensive care with less severe injuries. His condition is “improving and stable,“ according to Dr. Menach. Local police chief Jeremiah Ole Kosiom told media that witnesses heard the couple quarrelling outside their house, with the boyfriend allegedly pouring petrol on Cheptegei before igniting the fire.
Rebecca Cheptegei hailed from a region just across the Ugandan border. She had settled in Trans Nzoia county in Kenya, close to the country’s renowned athletic training centres. She had bought land and built a house there.
The head of Uganda’s Olympic committee, Donald Rukare, called the act “cowardly and senseless“ and vowed that her legacy would endure.
Cheptegei’s father, Joseph Cheptegei, speaking earlier in the week, expressed his devastation, praying “for justice for my daughter“ and adding that he had never witnessed such a cruel act in his life.
Cheptegei had an impressive athletic career, finishing 44th in the marathon at the recent Paris Olympics and winning gold at the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships in Chiang Mai, Thailand, in 2022.
Her death is a sad reminder of the violent deaths of fellow East African athletes Agnes Tirop and Damaris Mutua, both of whom were also allegedly killed by their partners. Tirop’s husband is currently facing murder charges, while a hunt for Mutua’s boyfriend is ongoing.
FAQs: Rebecca Cheptegei’s Tragic Death
Q: Who was Rebecca Cheptegei?
A: Rebecca Cheptegei was a 33-year-old Ugandan marathon runner who competed in the Paris Olympics and won gold at the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships in 2022.
Q: How did she die?
A: Cheptegei died after being set on fire by her ex-boyfriend following a land dispute.
Q: Where did the attack occur?
A: The attack occurred in northwest Kenya, where Cheptegei lived and trained.
Q: What happened to her ex-boyfriend?
A: He was injured in the fire but suffered less severe burns. He is currently in intensive care and in stable condition.
Q: What has been said about the rising violence against female athletes?
A: Cheptegei’s death is part of a growing concern over violence against female athletes in Kenya, with multiple high-profile cases, including the murders of Agnes Tirop and Damaris Mutua.
Q: What were some of her athletic achievements?
A: Cheptegei finished 44th in the marathon at the Paris Olympics and won a gold medal at the 2022 World Mountain and Trail Running Championships.