The head of Uganda’s Olympic Committee has announced the unfortunate and untimely passing of the celebrated Ugandan Olympic marathon runner, Rebecca Cheptegei, after she was brutally attacked by her boyfriend.
The incident happened on Sunday and left the olympic athlete with 75% burns on her body after she was allegedly doused in petrol and set on fire by her boyfriend, Dickson Ndiema. She passed on on Wednesday night, marking a somber day for the athletics community.
She had reportedly been engaged in a land quarrel with Ndiema who decided to Douse her in Petrol. He also sustained burns and was also taken to the same hospital as Cheptegei.
The sad news was confirmed on X by Donald Rukare, the president of the Uganda Olympics Committee.
“We have learnt of the sad passing on of our Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei following a vicious attack by her boyfriend,” Rukare posted.
“May her gentle soul rest in peace and we strongly condemn violence against women. 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, expressing his condolences.
Cheptegei, 33, had represented Uganda in the marathon at the Paris Olympics this year.
The incident occurred in Kenya, where Cheptegei owned a home and frequently trained. Her death makes her the third female athlete to be killed in Kenya since October 2021.
The shocking incident has drawn widespread condemnation and has reignited discussions about the safety and well-being of female athletes in the region.
Cheptegei, who finished 44th in the marathon at the Paris Olympics, was known for her dedication to her sport and her inspiring journey from Uganda to the global stage. She also finished 14th in the marathon at the 2023 World Championships.
It’s a sad incident indeed.
