Tragedy has struck the sports world as Ugandan Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei, 33, has died from injuries sustained in a brutal domestic violence attack. Cheptegei, a long-distance runner who competed in the women’s marathon at the Paris Olympics just weeks ago, passed away at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, Kenya, after suffering burns on 80% of her body.
Owen Menach, a spokesperson for the hospital, confirmed that Cheptegei’s organs failed early Thursday morning, leading to her death. She had been fully sedated upon admission due to the severity of her injuries.
The horrifying incident occurred after an argument with her partner, Dickson Ndiema, in Trans Nzoia County, Kenya. According to Trans Nzoia Police Commander Jeremiah ole Kosiom, Ndiema doused Cheptegei with gasoline and set her on fire. Ndiema, who was also burned in the attack, is receiving treatment for burns covering 30% of his body and remains in the intensive care unit.
Cheptegei’s father, Joseph Cheptegei, expressed his grief outside the hospital, calling for justice. “As it is now, the criminal who harmed my daughter is a murderer, and I am yet to see what the security officials are doing. He is still free and might even flee,” he said.
The attack allegedly stemmed from a dispute over land Cheptegei had purchased in Trans Nzoia to be closer to Kenya’s renowned athletic training centers. A report filed by the local chief noted that the couple had been heard arguing before the incident.
The Uganda Athletics Federation mourned Cheptegei’s passing on social media, condemning the act of violence that led to her untimely death. “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.”
Kenya’s sports minister has called for increased efforts to combat gender-based violence, emphasizing the importance of protecting women, especially in the athletic community.
