The man accused of killing Ugandan Olympian Rebecca Cheptegei has also passed away, days after the tragic incident that left the athlete severely injured. Cheptegei, 33, died last Thursday after suffering extensive burns in an alleged altercation over land in Kenya. Her former partner and accused attacker, Dickson Ndiema, succumbed to his injuries on Monday night while being treated at the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, the same facility where Cheptegei was admitted.
According to reports, Ndiema sustained burns on over 30% of his body during the incident, while Cheptegei suffered burns covering 80% of her body. Local authorities claim that Ndiema purchased a can of petrol, poured it on Cheptegei, and set her on fire following a heated dispute over land ownership.
Cheptegei’s parents revealed that their daughter had purchased property in Trans Nzoia, Kenya, to be closer to the country’s athletic training centers. The conflict between the couple allegedly centered around this land, where they had built a house. Witnesses reported hearing the two arguing before the fire broke out.
Rebecca Cheptegei recently represented Uganda in the marathon at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she finished 44th. Her participation in the event had been a source of pride for both her country and the international athletic community.
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Thomas Bach, President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), expressed his sorrow at her passing, calling her participation in the Paris Olympics “a source of inspiration, pride, and joy.” He added, “We are shocked and deeply saddened to learn about Rebecca Cheptegei’s death following the horrible attack against her.”
The Ugandan Athletics Federation also paid tribute to Cheptegei, condemning the brutal attack in a message shared on X, formerly known as Twitter. “As a federation, we condemn such acts and call for justice. May her soul rest in peace,” they wrote.
Donald Rukare, Uganda’s Olympic Committee chief, echoed the federation’s sentiments, describing the attack as “cowardly and senseless” and lauding Cheptegei’s achievements. “This has led to the loss of a great athlete, and her legacy will continue to endure,” he said.
Cheptegei’s recent athletic achievements included finishing 14th in the marathon at the 2023 World Championships. She was a celebrated figure in Ugandan sports and had a promising future ahead of her, making her untimely death a profound loss for the athletics community.
As investigations into the tragic incident continue, there is a growing call for justice in both Kenya and Uganda, where Cheptegei’s achievements had inspired many.