Ugandan marathon runner and Olympian Rebecca Cheptegei tragically passed away after being allegedly set on fire by her boyfriend. The 33-year-old athlete, who represented Uganda at the Paris 2024 Olympics and held the Ugandan marathon record, was hospitalized with severe burns on 75% of her body following a dispute with her partner outside their residence.
The Uganda Athletics Federation confirmed the heartbreaking news, stating that Cheptegei's boyfriend had poured petrol on her and set her on fire. Despite efforts to save her, Cheptegei succumbed to her injuries on September 5 at the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, Kenya.
An investigation into the incident is currently underway, with reports indicating that the boyfriend purchased petrol, doused Cheptegei with it, and ignited the flames. The tragic event has sparked an outpouring of tributes from the sports community, with Team Kenya extending their condolences to Cheptegei's family and friends.
Various figures, including Moses Wetang'ula and Donald Rukare, have expressed shock and sorrow over the loss of the talented athlete. Rukare emphasized the need to condemn violence against women, labeling the act as cowardly and senseless.
The incident has reignited discussions on gender-based violence, with many social media users condemning such acts and calling for justice. The tragic death of Rebecca Cheptegei serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive issue of domestic violence and the urgent need for societal change.
As the sports world mourns the loss of a remarkable talent, the legacy of Rebecca Cheptegei will continue to inspire and resonate with many. May she rest in peace, and may her memory serve as a catalyst for greater awareness and action against violence towards women.
