Olympian Rebecca Cheptegei dies after horrific attack by Ex-lover

Ugandan marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei, who recently competed in the Paris Olympics, tragically passed away after being set on fire by a former boyfriend. The 33-year-old athlete succumbed to severe burns following Sunday’s attack near her home in north-west Kenya, where she lived and trained.

Authorities revealed that Cheptegei was attacked after returning from church with her two daughters. The former couple had reportedly been arguing over land, which may have led to the fatal confrontation. Cheptegei’s father, Joseph, expressed grief, describing his daughter as a “very supportive” family member and the household’s breadwinner. He called on the Kenyan government to ensure justice is served.

Cheptegei was well-known for her generosity within the athletic community. Fellow Ugandan runner James Kirwa shared how she helped others financially and gifted training shoes to her peers. Uganda’s Athletics Federation and other prominent athletes condemned the attack, emphasizing the ongoing issue of gender-based violence in the region.

Cheptegei’s death follows similar cases involving East African athletes, including Agnes Tirop and Damaris Mutua, both of whom were murdered in domestic violence incidents. Kenyan athlete Joan Chelimo, who advocates against such violence, noted the continued rise of these tragic events despite efforts to raise awareness.

Rebecca Cheptegei, who won gold at the 2022 World Mountain and Trail Running Championships, leaves behind two young children. Authorities continue to investigate the case, with her ex-boyfriend currently in intensive care after suffering less severe burns during the incident.