By Sekaggya Seka Moses
Nairobi, Kenya – Tragedy struck the athletic community as Rebecca Cheptegei, a 33-year-old Ugandan Olympic marathon runner, succumbed to her injuries after being set on fire by her boyfriend, Dickson Ndiema, in western Trans Nzoia County, Kenya.
Cheptegei, who finished 44th in the marathon event at the 2024 Paris Olympics and won the 2022 World Mountain and Trail Running Championships in Thailand, suffered 75% burns on her body.
According to Trans Nzoia police chief Jeremiah ole Kosiom, Ndiema poured petrol on Cheptegei during a quarrel outside their house on Sunday and set her on fire. Ndiema also sustained serious burns.
“The couple were heard quarrelling outside their house. During the altercation, the boyfriend was seen pouring a liquid on the woman before burning her,” Kosiom said.
Cheptegei’s death echoes the tragic fate of fellow Kenyan athlete Agnes Tirop, who was stabbed to death in 2021, and Damaris Mutua, who was found strangled in 2022.
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The incident has sparked outrage and calls for action against gender-based violence. Athletics officials and fans have taken to social media to mourn the loss of the talented athlete.
“Rebecca was an inspiration to many, and her tragic death is a sobering reminder of the violence that many women face,” said Uganda Athletics Federation President.
Police are investigating the incident, and Ndiema is expected to face charges.
Cheptegei’s legacy will live on through her impressive athletic achievements and the countless lives she touched.
Rest in peace, Rebecca Cheptegei.
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