By Staff Reporter
Ugandan Olympian Rebecca Cheptegei has tragically passed away in Kenya, four days after being set on fire by her boyfriend, officials and medics confirmed. The horrific attack has sent shockwaves through the athletic community and raised renewed concerns over domestic violence.
Donald Rukare, president of the Uganda Olympic Committee, shared the devastating news on Thursday morning via social media platform X (formerly Twitter).
“We have learnt of the sad passing of our Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei OLY following a vicious attack by her boyfriend. May her gentle soul rest in peace, and we strongly condemn violence against women. This was a cowardly and senseless act that has led to the loss of a great athlete. Her legacy will continue to endure,” Rukare said in his statement.
According to Kenyan authorities, the incident occurred on Sunday in the town of Endebess, located in Trans-Nzoia County in western Kenya.
Cheptegei’s boyfriend, identified as Dickson Ndiema Marangach, allegedly doused her with petrol and set her on fire at her home.
Cheptegei, 33, had recently competed in the marathon at the Paris Olympics, where she finished 44th.
She was rushed to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) with severe burns covering 80% of her body.
Despite intensive care, her condition worsened, and she succumbed to her injuries early Thursday morning.
A nurse at MTRH confirmed her passing, saying, “She fought hard, but the burns were too extensive. She passed away at 5 a.m.”
A medical counselor at the hospital had indicated on Wednesday that Cheptegei’s health had deteriorated due to a severe sepsis infection.
Police reports indicate that Marangach entered Cheptegei’s home on Sunday afternoon while she was attending church with her children.
She lived with her sister and two daughters, who were present during the attack.
The Standard newspaper quoted one of Cheptegei’s daughters, who witnessed the harrowing scene:
“He kicked me while I tried to run to the rescue of my mother. I immediately cried out for help, attracting a neighbor who tried to extinguish the flames with water, but it was not possible.”
Marangach also sustained burns during the incident, with police confirming he suffered injuries to 30% of his body. His current condition remains unknown.
Authorities have described the couple’s relationship as tumultuous, with reports of ongoing family disputes.
The news of Cheptegei’s death has sparked widespread outrage and sorrow in both Uganda and Kenya, with many calling for stronger action to combat violence against women.
Cheptegei leaves behind two young daughters, a promising athletic legacy, and a community grieving the loss of one of their finest athletes.
