Ugandan marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei, who recently participated in the Paris Olympics, finishing 44th in the women’s marathon has tragically passed away, days after being set on fire by her boyfriend. The Uganda Athletics Federation confirmed her death on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday.
“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our athlete, Rebecca Cheptegei, who tragically fell victim to domestic violence early this morning,” the federation posted. “We condemn such acts and call for justice. May her soul rest in peace.”
The 33-year-old athlete, who was living in Kenya, had been fighting for her life after suffering burns on 75% of her body following an attack on Sunday at her home in Trans Nzoia County.
Trans Nzoia County police commander Jeremiah ole Kosiom reported that Cheptegei’s boyfriend, Dickson Ndiema, attacked her by pouring petrol on her and setting her on fire after a dispute over land. Ndiema, who was also injured in the incident, is currently being treated at a hospital in Eldoret. Doctors at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, where Cheptegei was receiving care, reported that she suffered multiple organ failure late Wednesday before passing away.
This post was published on September 5, 2024 6:32 PM
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