Ugandan marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei, a 33-year-old Olympian, has tragically passed away days after being severely burned in a domestic violence attack.
The attack occurred on Sunday when her ex-boyfriend doused her in petrol and set her on fire.
Cheptegei, who competed in the Paris Olympics, suffered extensive burns and was receiving treatment at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, Kenya.
Despite the best efforts of medical professionals, she succumbed to her injuries due to organ failure.
The authorities in North-West Kenya, where Cheptegei lived and trained, are investigating the incident.
A local report suggests that the attack was motivated by a dispute over land between Cheptegei and her ex-partner.
Her death has sparked renewed concerns about the alarming rise of violence against female athletes in Kenya.
Several such cases have resulted in fatalities, highlighting the urgent need for greater protection and support for these athletes.
The Uganda Athletics Federation expressed their deep sorrow and condemned the act of violence, calling for justice.
Cheptegei’s family is yet to confirm her death, but Dr. Owen Menach, the head of Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, confirmed that she had passed away.
Cheptegei’s former boyfriend, who was also injured in the attack, remains hospitalized but is reportedly in stable condition.
Local police chief Jeremiah ole Kosiom stated that the couple was heard arguing outside their home before the attack.
Cheptegei, a native of Uganda, had purchased land in Trans Nzoia county and built a house to be closer to Kenya’s renowned athletic training centers.
Her death has sent shockwaves through the athletic community, with many mourning the loss of a talented athlete.
The head of Uganda’s Olympic committee, Donald Rukare, described the attack as a “cowardly and senseless act” and expressed his condolences to Cheptegei’s family.
Her father, Joseph Cheptegei, expressed his grief and called for justice for his daughter.
Cheptegei’s death comes two years after the tragic killings of fellow East African athletes Agnes Tirop and Damaris Mutua, both of which were linked to domestic violence.
The cases have raised serious concerns about the safety of female athletes in the region.
