Ugandan marathoner Rebecca Cheptegei has tragically passed away after her boyfriend, Dickson Ndiema, allegedly set her on fire during a domestic dispute. The 2024 Paris Olympic participant succumbed to injuries sustained in the attack, which took place in Western Trans Nzoia County, Nairobi, on Sunday.
The brutal incident unfolded after an argument escalated between the couple, reportedly over land ownership. Ndiema, in a fit of rage, poured petrol on Cheptegei and set her ablaze, leaving her with burns covering 75% of her body. Despite being rushed to the hospital, the severity of her injuries proved fatal. Ndiema also sustained burns during the attack and is currently receiving treatment at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret.
Cheptegei, a rising star who placed 44th in the women’s marathon at the 2024 Paris Olympics, had relocated to Kenya to be closer to renowned training centers. Her tragic death mirrors past cases of violence against athletes in the region, evoking memories of Kenya’s Agnes Tirop, who was murdered by her husband in 2021, and Damaris Mutua, who was found dead under similar circumstances in 2022.
The sports world has been left in shock by the loss of Cheptegei, as calls for justice grow louder. Authorities are investigating the case, as the athletic community mourns another senseless tragedy.
