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Ugandan marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei, aged 33, has tragically passed away, days after being set on fire by her ex-boyfriend in a brutal attack. The Olympic athlete, who competed in the Paris 2024 Olympics, sustained severe burns following the assault, which occurred after she returned home from church on Sunday.
Cheptegei, who lived and trained in north-west Kenya, was reportedly involved in a land dispute with her former partner. Local authorities are currently investigating the incident. According to police, neighbors heard the couple arguing before the attack, during which the ex-boyfriend allegedly doused Cheptegei in petrol and set her alight.
Despite receiving treatment at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, Cheptegei succumbed to her injuries after suffering multi-organ failure. Dr. Owen Menach, head of the hospital, confirmed her death, expressing deep sorrow for the loss of the accomplished athlete.
Cheptegei’s ex-boyfriend also sustained burns but remains in stable condition in intensive care. The attack has sparked renewed concerns about rising violence against female athletes in Kenya, following the deaths of fellow runners Agnes Tirop and Damaris Mutua in recent years.
Cheptegei’s father, Joseph Cheptegei, expressed his devastation over the loss of his daughter, describing her as “very supportive” and calling for justice. Uganda’s athletics federation and Olympic committee condemned the act, honoring Cheptegei’s legacy as a celebrated athlete. In 2022, she won gold at the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships in Thailand.
