Ugandan Marathon Runner Rebecca Cheptegei Dies After Brutal Attack
Ugandan athlete Rebecca Cheptegei, a 33-year-old marathon runner, has tragically passed away after suffering severe burns in a vicious attack allegedly carried out by her former boyfriend. According to Ugandan officials and AFP, Cheptegei was doused in petrol and set on fire last Sunday, leaving her with burns covering over 75% of her body.
The attack occurred in Eldoret, Kenya, where Cheptegei lived and trained, after she returned home from church. Authorities believe the assault may have been related to a land dispute between Cheptegei and her ex-partner.
Cheptegei was receiving treatment at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, but unfortunately, her organs failed, and she succumbed to her injuries. Her family has yet to officially confirm her death.
The police are currently investigating the case, and Cheptegei’s ex-boyfriend, who also sustained burns during the attack, is being treated at the same hospital.
This tragic incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with Uganda’s athletics federation releasing a statement saying, “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our athlete, Rebecca Cheptegei… We condemn such acts and call for justice.”
Cheptegei’s father, Joseph Cheptegei, has expressed his grief and called for justice, describing the event as “the most inhumane act” he had ever witnessed.
This tragedy comes two years after the killings of fellow East African athletes Agnes Tirop and Damaris Mutua, whose partners were identified as main suspects. Concerns are mounting over the rise in violence against female athletes in Kenya.
