The global athletics community is mourning the loss of Rebecca Cheptegei, the Ugandan marathon runner who tragically died after being doused in petrol and set on fire by her former boyfriend.
Story Summary:
- Ugandan marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei has died after being set alight by her ex-boyfriend.
- The athlete suffered severe burns and passed away in a Kenyan hospital.
- Police investigations are underway, with the boyfriend also being treated for burns in the same hospital.
Rebecca Cheptegei dies after being set alight by boyfriend
The brutal attack occurred on Sunday, shortly after Cheptegei returned to her home in northwest Kenya from a church service.
According to reports, the couple had been involved in a dispute over a piece of land in Trans Nzoia County, where Cheptegei had recently built a house.
Witnesses reported hearing the couple quarrelling before the attack. Local police chief Jeremiah Ole Kosiom confirmed:
“During the altercation, the boyfriend was seen pouring a liquid on the woman before burning her.”
Cheptegei, 33, had recently competed in the Paris Olympics, finishing 44th in the marathon.
She also won gold at the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships in Thailand in 2022.
Following the attack, she was taken to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, where she was treated for extensive burns.
Despite medical efforts, she succumbed to her injuries, with doctors citing multiple organ failure as the cause of death.
Was the boyfriend arrested?
The ex-boyfriend, who is accused of the murder, was also admitted to the same hospital after sustaining less severe burns during the incident.
He remains in intensive care, but his condition is reportedly stable, according to Dr Owen Menach, the head of the hospital. Police are waiting for his recovery to proceed with their investigation.
The Uganda Athletics Federation expressed its sadness over the loss of one of the country’s finest athletes, condemning the act of violence.
“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our athlete, Rebecca Cheptegei, who tragically fell victim to domestic violence. May her soul rest in peace,” the federation said in a statement.
