Ugandan Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei has passed away days after being doused in petrol and set on fire by her former boyfriend, according to Ugandan officials. The 33-year-old marathon runner, who competed in the Paris Olympics, had sustained severe burns in the attack, which occurred on Sunday, as confirmed by the doctor treating her.
Cheptegei was targeted in north-west Kenya, where she lived and trained, after returning home from church. A report by a local administrator suggested the attack stemmed from a land dispute between the athlete and her ex-partner. Kenyan authorities have launched an investigation, while concerns rise over the increasing violence against female athletes, several of whom have died in recent years.
“We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our athlete, Rebecca Cheptegei, following a tragic domestic violence incident. We condemn this act and demand justice. May her soul rest in peace,” Uganda’s athletics federation posted on X.
Although her family has yet to confirm her death, Dr. Owen Menach, head of Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, where she had been treated, informed local media that she died after suffering complete organ failure.
Cheptegei’s former boyfriend, who sustained less severe burns, remains in intensive care but is stable, Dr. Menach added. Police chief Jeremiah ole Kosiom reported that witnesses heard the couple arguing before the boyfriend set her on fire.
Cheptegei, originally from Uganda, had purchased land and built a home in Trans Nzoia County, Kenya, to be closer to the country’s renowned athletic training centers. “This is a senseless and cowardly act that has claimed a remarkable athlete. Her legacy will live on,” Donald Rukare, head of Uganda’s Olympic committee, said on X.
Her father, Joseph Cheptegei, expressed his grief earlier in the week, stating he prays for justice for his daughter, noting he had never witnessed such cruelty in his life.
Rebecca Cheptegei finished 44th in the marathon at the Paris Olympics and won gold at the 2022 World Mountain and Trail Running Championships in Thailand. Her death follows the tragic murders of fellow athletes Agnes Tirop and Damaris Mutua, both of whom were killed by their partners, according to authorities. Tirop’s husband is currently on trial for her murder, while Mutua’s boyfriend remains at large.
