Rebecca Cheptegei, a marathon runner who represented Uganda in the 2024 Paris Olympics, is fighting for her life after reportedly being doused with petrol and set on fire by her boyfriend. The shocking incident occurred in her home in Trans Nzoia County, Kenya, leaving the 33-year-old athlete with burns covering 75% of her body.
Local police commander Jeremiah ole Kosiom stated that Cheptegei's boyfriend, Dickson Ndiema, allegedly purchased petrol before attacking her during an argument on Sunday. Ndiema also suffered burn injuries in the incident. Both are currently receiving specialized treatment at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret.
Cheptegei, who finished 44th in the Olympic marathon with a time of 2:32:14, had recently purchased land in the area to be close to athletic training facilities. Reports suggest the couple had been arguing over the property before the attack.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the athletic community, with many expressing concern for Cheptegei's recovery. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.