Rebecca Cheptegei, a 33-year-old Ugandan marathon runner who competed in the Paris Olympics, has died following a horrific attack by a former boyfriend, according to Ugandan officials. Cheptegei was doused in petrol and set on fire, suffering severe burns. She passed away after her organs failed, as confirmed by Dr. Owen Menach, head of Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, Kenya.
Cheptegei, who was targeted after returning home from church, had been involved in a dispute over land with her ex-partner. Local police chief Jeremiah ole Kosiom reported, “The couple were heard quarrelling outside their house. During the altercation, the boyfriend was seen pouring a liquid on the woman before burning her.”
The athlete’s former boyfriend is also hospitalized with less severe burns and is reported to be in stable condition. The Uganda Athletics Federation condemned the act, stating, “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our athlete, Rebecca Cheptegei, who tragically fell victim to domestic violence. As a federation, we condemn such acts and call for justice.”
Cheptegei’s father, Joseph Cheptegei, expressed his anguish, saying, “I pray for justice for my daughter. I have never seen such an inhumane act in my life.”
Rebecca Cheptegei won gold at the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships in Chiang Mai in 2022 and finished 44th in the marathon at the Paris Olympics. Her death follows similar tragic cases involving East African athletes Agnes Tirop and Damaris Mutua, with their partners being the main suspects in both cases.
Donald Rukare, head of Uganda’s Olympic committee, reflected on her legacy, stating, “This was a cowardly and senseless act that has led to the loss of a great athlete. Her legacy will continue to endure,” He said.
