The sporting world has been rocked by the tragic death of Ugandan marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei, who died after being set on fire by her ex-boyfriend. The 33-year-old athlete, who recently competed at the Paris Olympics, Olympics succumbed to the severe burns he suffered in the horrific attack last Sunday.
Rebecca Cheptegei dies after tragic incident
Rebecca Cheptegei, a famous long-distance runner, was doused with petrol and set alight by her ex-partner during an alleged land dispute. The attack, which took place in Trans Nzoia County, Kenya, left the athlete fighting for her life, but despite medical efforts, she tragically passed away due to the severity of her injuries.
According to reports filed by local authorities, the altercation between Rebecca Cheptegei and her ex-boyfriend arose from a disagreement over a piece of land she had purchased in the region. Cheptegei had built a house in Trans Nzoia to be closer to Kenya’s elite athletics training centres, a decision that was in line with her commitment to improve her performance and continue her athletic career at the highest level.
A local administrator who filed the initial report claimed that tensions between Cheptegei and her ex-partner over the property had been brewing for some time. While the precise details of the dispute remain unclear, the escalating conflict resulted in the horrific attack that has now claimed the life of the talented athlete. Reports also claim that Cheptegei’s ex-partner also sustained injuries in the attack and is currently admitted to hospital with over 30 percent burns.
Ugandan and Kenyan authorities have launched an investigation into the incident. Police are searching for the ex-boyfriend and authorities are treating the case with urgency due to the violent nature of the crime and the high visibility of the victim.
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Uganda Olympic Committee President Donald Rukare called the attack “a cowardly and senseless act that has led to the loss of a great athlete.”
Kenya’s Sports Minister Kipchumba Murkomen said the government would ensure justice for the victim.
“This tragedy is a stark reminder that we must do more to combat gender-based violence in our society, which in recent years has reared its ugly head in elite sporting circles,” she wrote in a statement.
International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach said: “Rebecca’s participation in the Paris 2024 women’s marathon was a source of inspiration, pride and joy.”
(With AP inputs)
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