Ugandan marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei, aged 33, was tragically set on fire by her boyfriend in Trans Nzoia County, Kenya. The incident occurred following a disagreement between Cheptegei and her boyfriend, resulting in him pouring petrol on her and setting her ablaze in their home. Cheptegei sustained severe burns on over 75 percent of her body as a result of the attack.
Reports from local authorities indicate that the couple was heard arguing outside their residence before the boyfriend carried out the horrific act. The altercation allegedly stemmed from a dispute over the land where Cheptegei's house was situated. Fortunately, neighbors intervened and rescued Cheptegei, who is currently in critical condition.
Both Cheptegei and her boyfriend are receiving medical treatment at the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret for their burn injuries. Cheptegei, an accomplished athlete, began her racing career in 2010 and represented Uganda in the women's marathon at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she finished in 44th place.
Prior to the tragic incident, Cheptegei had achieved notable success in her athletic endeavors, winning the Padova Marathon in April 2022 and securing second place in the women's 10,000-meter run at the Ugandan Championships in Kampala. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the prevalence of domestic violence and its devastating consequences.
If you or someone you know is impacted by domestic violence, please seek help by contacting the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or texting START to 88788 for support.
