Rebecca Cheptegei, a 33-year-old Ugandan marathon runner, has tragically passed away after suffering severe burns in a brutal attack by her ex-boyfriend. The incident occurred on Sunday, September 3, at her home in Trans Nzoia County, Kenya, where she had recently relocated for training purposes.
According to medical officials, Cheptegei sustained burns to 80% of her body after being doused in petrol and set alight. She was rushed to the intensive care unit at the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, Kenya, but unfortunately succumbed to her injuries on Thursday, September 5.
Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo has announced that a sports site in the capital will be renamed after Cheptegei, paying tribute to the Ugandan athlete's memory and legacy. Hidalgo stated, "Paris will not forget her. We will dedicate a sports site to her so that her memory and her history remain among us and contribute to carrying the message of equality, which is a message carried by the Olympic and Paralympic Games."
Cheptegei's tragic death has sent shockwaves through the athletic community, with many paying tribute to her strength, beauty, and freedom. She competed in the marathon at the Olympics last month, finishing in 44th place.
The alleged attacker, Dickson Ndiema, is believed to have bought a can of petrol, poured it on Cheptegei, and set her ablaze during a disagreement. Kenyan police have launched an investigation into the incident, with the Uganda Olympic Committee urging law enforcement agencies to take swift action to bring the perpetrator to justice.
President of World Athletics Sebastian Coe said, "Our sport has lost a talented athlete in the most tragic circumstances. Rebecca was an incredibly versatile runner who still had a lot to give on the roads, mountains, and cross-country tracks."
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