*Ugandan Olympic marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei has passed away after being doused with gasoline and set ablaze by her ex-boyfriend.
We reported earlier that the attack resulted in her suffering burns over 75% of her body. Cheptegei, a distance runner who placed 44th at the 2024 Paris Olympics, was assaulted in her home in Trans Nzoia County, Kenya, CBS News reports. According to Trans Nzoia County Police, her former boyfriend, Dickson Ndiema, poured petrol on her and set her on fire Sunday during an argument over the land where the house was built.
“During the altercation, the boyfriend was seen pouring a liquid on the woman before burning her,” Trans Nzoia County Police Commander Jeremiah ole Kosiom told reporters.
The Ugandan Athletics Federation confirmed in a statement on social media that Cheptegei “suffered severe injuries” in the vicious attack.
Femicide.
Rest in Peace Rebecca Cheptegei. We are so so sorry ? pic.twitter.com/J0BbPYYWdS
— Lillz (@LillzTIL) September 5, 2024
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Cheptegei’s parents mentioned that their daughter purchased land in Trans Nzoia to be close to the county’s numerous athletic training facilities. After spending several days in critical condition at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret city, the Uganda Athletics Federation announced Cheptegei’s death on Thursday, CBS News reports.
“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our athlete, Rebecca Cheptegei early this morning who tragically fell victim to domestic violence,” the Uganda Athletics Federation wrote in a statement. “As a federation, we condemn such acts and call for justice. May her soul rest In Peace.”
Team Kenya also released 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.”
READ MORE FROM EURWEB.COM: Olympian Rebecca Cheptegei Attacked and Set Ablaze by Boyfriend, Sustains 75% Burns
