Rebecca Cheptegei, an Olympic marathon runner from Uganda, tragically passed away after an incident involving her ex-boyfriend.
The 33-year-old athlete, who was based in Kenya, sustained severe burns covering 75 percent of her body in an attack that occurred over the weekend.
According to a police report, Cheptegei was attacked by her former partner, who allegedly doused her in petrol and set her on fire. The violent episode reportedly followed a dispute at her residence in Trans Nzoia County, a region in western Kenya close to the Ugandan border.
Police Chief Jeremiah ole Kosiom confirmed the details, stating, “The couple were heard quarrelling outside their house. During the altercation, the boyfriend was seen pouring a liquid on the woman before burning her.”
Following the attack, Cheptegei received urgent medical care at a hospital in Kenya. Her ex-boyfriend, who was also injured in the incident, was reported to be undergoing treatment as well. Despite these efforts, Cheptegei’s condition deteriorated, and she was confirmed dead on Tuesday.
Cheptegei had recently competed in the Paris 2024 Games, where she finished 44th in the women’s marathon. Her untimely death has shocked and saddened the athletic community.
The Ugandan Athletics Federation expressed their grief in a statement on X, saying: “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.”
