Ugandan Marathon Runner Rebecca Cheptegei Seriously Injured in Alleged Attack by Boyfriend
In a tragic and shocking development, Rebecca Cheptegei, a Ugandan marathon runner who competed in the 2024 Summer Olympic Games in Paris, is in critical condition after being allegedly attacked and set on fire by her boyfriend. The incident, which occurred just weeks after her Olympic participation, has stunned the athletics community and drawn widespread concern.
Cheptegei, 33, who was residing in Kenya for her training, is reported to have suffered severe burns covering 75 percent of her body. The attack allegedly took place after a dispute with her boyfriend, Dickson Ndiema, over land she purchased in Trans Nzoia county. The land was intended to facilitate her proximity to athletic training centers in Kenya.
According to the BBC, the confrontation occurred as Cheptegei was returning from church with her two children. Local police chief Jeremiah ole Kosiom confirmed that the couple was heard arguing about the land before Ndiema reportedly poured gasoline on Cheptegei and ignited it.
“During the altercation, the boyfriend was seen pouring a liquid on the woman before burning her,” Kosiom said. Neighbors who witnessed the attack intervened promptly, helping to rescue Cheptegei and get her to safety.
Both Cheptegei and Ndiema were transported to the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret city. Dr. Owen Benach, senior director of clinical services at the hospital, stated that Cheptegei is under sedation due to the severity of her burns, but the hospital is equipped to provide the necessary treatment.
In the recent Tokyo Olympics, Cheptegei placed 44th in the women’s marathon. Her athletic career includes a notable victory at the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships in Chiang Mai, Thailand in 2022.
The incident has prompted a wave of support from the global athletic community and beyond, highlighting the need for vigilance and support for athletes facing personal crises. The ongoing investigation will seek to uncover more details about the attack and ensure justice for Cheptegei.
