Olympic athlete dies days after boyfriend ‘poured gasoline on her and set her on fire,’ officials say

6 September 2024 Editor News 0

The world of sports has been struck by a devastating tragedy as Ugandan Olympic marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei has passed away after a horrific attack by her former boyfriend. The 33-year-old athlete, who represented Uganda in the 2024 Paris Olympics, suffered life-threatening burns to more than 75% of her body after her boyfriend allegedly poured gasoline on her and set her on fire. The incident, which has shocked the international community, highlights the ongoing issue of domestic violence and the urgent need for justice.

Rebecca Cheptegei (in the center) has died after the horrific attack. Credit: China News Service / Getty

According to reports, the incident occurred on Monday, September 2, outside Cheptegei’s home in Trans Nzoia County, Kenya. Witnesses revealed that the couple was heard quarreling before the situation escalated into a violent altercation. During the dispute, the boyfriend allegedly doused Cheptegei in gasoline and set her on fire.

Trans Nzoia County Police Commander Jeremiah Ole Kosiom confirmed the details of the attack, stating that the boyfriend had been seen pouring a liquid on Cheptegei before igniting it. The police later discovered a five-liter jerry can, a bag, and a burned phone at the crime scene, providing further evidence of the malicious intent behind the act.

Following the brutal attack, Rebecca Cheptegei was rushed to the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, Kenya, where doctors fought to save her life. Suffering from burns over three-quarters of her body, the marathon runner was placed in the intensive care unit in a critical condition. Despite the best efforts of the medical team, her injuries proved too severe, and Cheptegei tragically succumbed to her injuries on Thursday, September 5.

Dr. Owen Menach, the acting director of the hospital, confirmed her death, which has since sent shockwaves through the Ugandan and international athletic communities. The athlete’s death has been described as a significant loss to both her country and the global sports world, leaving a lasting void in the hearts of those who knew her.

In the wake of Rebecca Cheptegei’s passing, Uganda’s athletics federation shared a heartbreaking tribute on social media. Taking to the platform X, the federation expressed deep sorrow over the loss of one of their most talented athletes. “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our athlete, Rebecca Cheptegei, early this morning, who tragically fell victim to domestic violence,” the post read.

The federation also took the opportunity to call for justice and condemned the violent act that led to Cheptegei’s death. “As a federation, we condemn such acts and call for justice. May her soul rest in peace,” they added, urging the community to come together to fight against the growing issue of domestic violence.

Rebecca Cheptegei’s journey as an athlete was nothing short of inspiring. She proudly represented Uganda at the 2024 Paris Olympics, competing in the marathon event and finishing 44th. Her participation in the Games was a testament to her hard work, dedication, and passion for the sport. However, just weeks after her Olympic appearance, her life was tragically cut short.

Cheptegei’s athletic achievements, while notable, are now overshadowed by the circumstances of her death. The marathon runner had relocated to Trans Nzoia County in Kenya to be closer to better training facilities, further demonstrating her commitment to her career. Unfortunately, it was in this very location where her life was taken away from her in such a brutal manner.

As more details emerged about the events leading up to Cheptegei’s death, it was revealed that the couple had been fighting over her land in the small town of Endebess. Cheptegei’s father, Joseph Cheptegei, spoke to reporters, expressing confusion and disbelief over the boyfriend’s actions. “They were just friends, and I wonder why he wanted to take away things belonging to my daughter,” he told The Star.

This land dispute has been cited as a possible motive behind the violent attack, but regardless of the reasoning, the senselessness of the act remains clear. Cheptegei’s death is a stark reminder of how domestic violence can escalate into life-threatening situations, often with tragic outcomes.

The death of Rebecca Cheptegei has led to an outpouring of grief, not only from her family and fellow athletes but from the wider public as well. Uganda Olympics Committee President Donald Rukare took to social media to share his thoughts, writing: “We have learnt of the sad passing on of our Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei following a vicious attack by her boyfriend. May her gentle soul rest in peace, and we strongly condemn violence against women.”

Rukare’s message reflected the sentiment shared by many, as the global community condemned the cowardly act that took Cheptegei’s life. Advocates for women’s rights have called for more stringent laws and measures to prevent domestic violence, stressing the importance

In the aftermath of this horrific crime, the authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Cheptegei’s death. The boyfriend, who sustained less severe burns during the incident, remains in intensive care, but his condition is reportedly stable and improving, according to Dr. Menach.

While the investigation is ongoing, there is hope that justice will be served for Cheptegei and her family. Her untimely death has reignited discussions around the dangers of domestic violence, and many are calling for stronger protections and interventions to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.

Rebecca Cheptegei’s death has left the world mourning the loss of an incredibly talented athlete whose life was senselessly cut short. The shocking nature of her passing serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers of domestic violence and the need for justice for victims. As her family, friends, and country come to terms with this heartbreaking loss, the legacy of Rebecca Cheptegei will continue to inspire future generations of athletes.

Her tragic death should fuel the fight against domestic violence, ensuring that no more lives are lost to such horrific acts of violence. May Rebecca Cheptegei’s soul rest in peace, and may her story serve as a catalyst for change in the fight to protect women and others from the scourge of domestic violence.

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