Rebecca Cheptegei, a celebrated Ugandan marathon runner who recently competed in the 2024 Paris Olympics, has tragically died after a brutal attack.
The 33-year-old athlete succumbed to severe burns inflicted by her former boyfriend, who doused her in petrol and set her on fire.
The incident occurred in north-west Kenya, where Cheptegei lived and trained. According to local authorities, the attack happened after she returned home from church with her two daughters.
Cheptegei suffered extensive burns and was rushed to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, where she passed away early this morning due to multi-organ failure caused by her injuries.
Her father, Joseph Cheptegei, described her as a "very supportive" daughter and a crucial family breadwinner. Fellow Ugandan athlete James Kirwa praised her generosity, noting how she had helped fellow runners financially.
Reports suggest that the attack may have been related to a dispute over a piece of land between Cheptegei and her former partner.
The local administrator's report indicates that the athlete had purchased property in Trans Nzoia county and built a house to be closer to Kenya's elite athletics training centers.
This incident has highlighted a growing concern about gender-based violence in Kenya, where a 2022 national survey revealed that at least 34% of women had experienced physical violence.
Kenya's Sports Minister Kipchumba Murkomen emphasized the need for urgent action to combat such violence, particularly as it now affects even elite athletes.
Dr. Kimani Mbugua, a consultant at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, confirmed that despite the medical team's best efforts, Cheptegei's severe burns led to her passing.
Cheptegei's death has sparked widespread condemnation and calls for justice.
The Uganda Athletics Federation expressed their sorrow and denounced domestic violence, urging for a thorough investigation into the tragedy.
"We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our athlete, Rebecca Cheptegei, who tragically fell victim to domestic violence. As a federation, we condemn such acts and call for justice.
May her soul rest in peace," the federation posted on X (formerly Twitter).
The tragic loss of Rebecca Cheptegei serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need to address and eradicate gender-based violence, ensuring safety and justice for all individuals, regardless of their status.
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