Athlete Rebecca Cheptegei Dies Following Brutal Attack by Boyfriend

Ugandan long-distance runner Rebecca Cheptegei has tragically passed away after a horrific attack by her estranged boyfriend. The 33-year-old athlete, who recently competed in the 2024 Paris Olympics, succumbed to her injuries on Thursday following a brutal assault.

Cheptegei sustained severe burns over 80% of her body when her ex-boyfriend, identified as Dickson Ndiema, doused her with petrol and set her on fire last Sunday. The incident occurred in Chumeek village, Kinyoro, Trans Nzoia County. Both Cheptegei and Ndiema were injured in the attack, and the suspect is currently under police custody receiving medical treatment.

According to Trans Nzoia Police Commander Jeremiah Ole Koisiom, a land dispute between Cheptegei and her boyfriend is believed to have triggered the tragic incident. Cheptegei had recently purchased land in the area to be closer to a training center.

Uganda’s Athletics Federation released a statement expressing their deep sorrow over Cheptegei’s passing. They condemned the attack and highlighted the athlete’s recent participation in the Paris Olympics.

Police investigations into the incident are ongoing. Authorities have recovered evidence at the scene, including a five-liter jerrican of petrol and a mobile phone believed to belong to Ndiema.

Cheptegei’s death is a devastating loss for the athletic community in East Africa. Her passing has sparked calls for justice and increased protections for athletes.