Olympic marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei has tragically died after allegedly being set on fire in a horrific petrol attack by her ex-boyfriend.
The 33-year-old Ugandan athlete sustained severe burns over 75% of her body in what is believed to have been a premeditated ambush inside her own home.
Local media report that her former partner sneaked into the house while she and her children were at church, igniting the brutal attack upon her return.
READ MORE: Horror moment woman hit by high-speed train while posing for snaps
Cheptegei, who competed at the Paris 2024 Olympics and placed 44th in the women’s marathon, was rushed to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, Kenya, where she battled for her life in intensive care.
Despite the medical team’s best efforts, the athlete succumbed to her injuries, with doctors confirming she died after her organs failed.
The Ugandan Athletics Federation expressed their grief in a statement posted on social media, saying, “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our athlete, Rebecca Cheptegei… who tragically fell victim to domestic violence. We condemn such acts and call for justice. May her soul rest in peace.”
Reports indicate that Cheptegei and her ex-boyfriend had been embroiled in a bitter dispute over land she owned in Kenya’s Trans Nzoia County. According to authorities, her former partner allegedly poured petrol on her and set her alight during an argument, leaving both Cheptegei and the attacker with severe burns. Neighbors rushed to assist Cheptegei after the attack, but her injuries were too extensive.
The police investigation revealed that a five-litre jerry can and a burned phone were found at the scene, further supporting claims of a premeditated attack. Authorities confirmed that the ex-boyfriend was also hospitalized due to burns he sustained during the altercation.
Donald Rukare, president of the Uganda Olympic Committee, condemned the attack, calling it “cowardly and senseless,” and emphasized that Cheptegei’s legacy as a dedicated and talented athlete would continue to inspire. He also urged local authorities to take swift legal action against the perpetrator.
Cheptegei, who had been representing Uganda on the global stage since 2010, was known for her prowess in cross-country and long-distance running. She participated in numerous international competitions, including the IAAF World Cross Country Championships and the World Athletics Championships. Her career saw her achieve remarkable feats, but her life was tragically cut short by this devastating act of violence.
Family members, including her father, Joseph Cheptegei, and sister Evalyne Chelagat, have expressed their sorrow and disbelief over the brutal attack.
Speaking to the media, her father confirmed that the dispute between Rebecca and her ex-partner revolved around land ownership and that the children involved were not fathered by the accused attacker.
Tributes have poured in for the athlete, with many expressing heartbreak over her untimely death. Social media users shared messages of condolence, with one person writing, “So so sad, watched her race many times,” and another saying, “Dear Ugandans, and to her family, we are sorry. This is heartbreaking.”
This shocking incident has reignited discussions around domestic violence, with organizations and local figures calling for justice and stronger protections for women. Women’s Aid and other support services have emphasized the importance of seeking help if anyone finds themselves in a similar situation, offering practical advice on staying safe in dangerous circumstances.
Rebecca Cheptegei’s death is a devastating loss to both her family and the athletic community, and her legacy as a determined and skilled runner will not be forgotten.
READ MORE: Shoplifter calmly piles up two armfuls of food from bakery just yards from police station
