Rebecca Cheptegei: Kenyans Mourn as Ugandan Olympic Athlete Set on Fire by Kenyan Lover Dies

• Ugandan athlete Rebecca Cheptegei is dead
• Cheptegei died while receiving treatment for 80% burns sustained in an attack by her Kenyan lover Dickson Ndiema
• The athlete succumbed to injuries as plans were underway to airlift her to Nairobi for specialised treatment

In a heartbreaking turn of events, Ugandan Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei is dead.

According to The New Vision, the athlete succumbed to injuries sustained after being set on fire by her boyfriend in a brutal attack.

Where was Cheptegei attacked?

The incident occurred in her home in Trans Nzoia County, Kenya, where she had been living and training.

Cheptegei, who recently competed in the women’s marathon at the 2024 Paris Olympics, suffered severe burns over 80% of her body.

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The attack was allegedly carried out by her boyfriend, Dickson Ndiema, during a heated argument.

Ndiema reportedly ambushed Cheptegei as she was coming back home from church, poured petrol on her, and set her ablaze.

Where did Cheptegei die?

Despite receiving intensive care at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, Cheptegei’s injuries proved fatal.

She died as plans were underway for her to be airlifted to Nairobi for specialised treatment.

Her tragic death is a significant loss to the sports world and her home country of Uganda.

Social media users sent their condolences to the bereaved family, with many calling for justice.

Condolences to Cheptegei family

Sam Tindimwebwa:

"It's very unfortunate that Uganda loses such a talent of a woman. Our prayers and thoughts are with the family."

Flora Aber

"Very unfortunate, what a great lost to Ugandan! Ooh, may her soul rest in eternal peace."

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Odongo Isaac:

"What! We should always control our anger, this is too bad. May her soul rest in peace."

Rebecca Cheptegei's career and achievements

YEN.com.gh had earlier reported on the achievements of Rebecca Cheptegei.

Cheptegei represented Uganda at the 2024 Paris Olympics in the women's marathon, finishing in 44th place.

The seasoned middle and long-distance runner started her career in 2010 and is the second-fastest female marathoner in Uganda's history.

Source: TUKO.co.ke