Rebecca Cheptegei, Uganda Marathoner Who Participated In Paris Olympics, Dies After Petrol Attack By Ex-Partner

Rebecca Cheptegei Dies: The Uganda marathoner was rescued and admitted to hospital by her neighbours but succumbed to burn injuries.

Rebecca Cheptegei, the Ugandan marathon runner, who recently competed in the Paris Olympics is no more. The 33-year-old breather her last after being admitted to a hospital following a petrol attack from her ex-boyfriend in western Kenya. Cheptegei sustained severe burn injuries.

More than 75 per cent of her body had burn injuries after she was set on fire in Endebess where she had been training.

"We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our athlete, Rebecca Cheptegei early this morning, who tragically fell victim to domestic violence. As a federation, we condemn such acts and call for justice. May her soul rest In Peace," Ugandan Athletics wrote in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

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"On behalf of #TeamKenya we extend our deepest condolences to the Ugandan sports community, family, and friends of Rebecca Cheptegei. Rebecca’s talent, and perseverance as Uganda’s Women’s Marathon record holder and a Paris 2024 Olympian will always be remembered and celebrated," the Kenyan Olympic team said in a statement.

"Her untimely and tragic passing is a profound loss, and our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time as we honor her legacy and advocate for an end to gender-based violence. May her soul rest in peace," it added.

Rebecca Cheptegei's Alleged Attacker Admitted To Same Hospital

Cheptegei's death is a massive loss to the athletics federation. She had been a champion athlete as her resume proves, having won the gold at the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships in 2022. After the attack on her, she was rescued by her neighbours and was admitted to  a hospital in Eldoret. However, she couldn't survive the injuries sustained.

It is being learnt that her alleged attacker had also sustained injuries and was also admitted to the same hospital. The local police is currently investigating the incident.