Ugandan Olympian Rebecca Cheptegei has tragically passed away in Kenya, four days after suffering severe burns in a brutal domestic violence attack. The 33-year-old marathon runner, who recently competed in the Paris Olympics, was set on fire by her boyfriend at her home in Endebess, Trans-Nzoia County, in western Kenya.
Cheptegei’s death was confirmed by Ugandan athletics officials on Thursday. Uganda Olympic Committee President Donald Rukare expressed deep sorrow over the loss. “We have learnt of the sad passing of our Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei following a vicious attack by her boyfriend,” Rukare wrote in a post on X (formerly Twitter). He condemned the act as a “cowardly and senseless” crime that has claimed the life of a talented and beloved athlete. “Her legacy will continue to endure,” he added.
The horrific incident occurred on Sunday when Cheptegei’s partner, identified as Dickson Ndiema Marangach, allegedly doused her in petrol and set her alight. Kenyan police are investigating the case, which has shocked both nations. The couple’s daughter, who witnessed the assault, recounted the terrifying moments that unfolded at their home. “He kicked me while I tried to run to the rescue of my mother,” she said, as reported by The Standard. A neighbor, drawn to the scene by the girl’s cries for help, tried in vain to extinguish the flames.
Cheptegei was rushed to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) in Eldoret, where she had been fighting for her life. Unfortunately, doctors could not save her after she sustained burns covering 80% of her body. A hospital spokesperson confirmed that all of her organs had failed by Wednesday night, leading to her untimely death.
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Her partner, Marangach, also sustained injuries in the incident, suffering burns on 30% of his body. He remains in custody as police continue their investigation into the horrific attack.
Rebecca Cheptegei recently represented Uganda in the marathon event at the Paris Olympics, where she finished 44th. Despite her career accomplishments, her life was cut short in an act of domestic violence that has left her friends, family, and the international athletics community in mourning.
In a statement on X, the Uganda Athletics Federation shared their grief: “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our athlete, Rebecca Cheptegei, early this morning who tragically fell victim to domestic violence.”
Cheptegei’s death highlights the ongoing crisis of domestic violence, a scourge that too often leaves families shattered and lives lost. Her friends, family, and supporters are calling for justice, urging authorities to ensure that her killer is held accountable for his actions.
As the athletics world mourns, the focus shifts toward justice for Cheptegei and raising awareness of the need to end violence against women. Her legacy as a dedicated Olympian will not be forgotten, and her story serves as a reminder of the urgent need to confront domestic violence in all its forms.
