Rebecca Cheptegei’s journey on earth has ended in tragedy. The Uganda marathon runner, who competed at the 2024 Paris Olympics just weeks ago, died on September 5 after being set on fire in a gasoline attack by an alleged boyfriend. She was 33.
“It is sad that we lost the patient early this morning”, Said Dr. Owen Menach, the director of Clinical services and surgery at Kenya’s Moi Teaching and referring Hospital where Rebecca was admitted to the ICU after her injuries. After all her organs failed at about 5am while we were doing our best to save her life”.
The Uganda Athletics Federation expressed its sadness over the loss of the athlete.
“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our athlete, Rebecca Cheptegei early this morning who tragically fell victim to domestic violence”, The organization shared on X. ” As a federation, we condemn such acts and call for justice. May her soul rest in peace”.
The Olympian who was reportedly a mom to two children suffered burns on at least 75 percent of her body as well as inhalation burns on September 2 after her alleged boyfriend, Dickson Ndiema set her fire following an altercation, Police Chief Jeremiah Ole Kosiom told reportets
