(Kenya) – Ugandan Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei has died from severe burns sustained during a violent incident involving her partner. On September 5, 2024, it was confirmed that Cheptegei passed away at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, Kenya, where she had been receiving treatment for burns covering 80% of her body.
According to a hospital spokesperson, Owen Menach, Cheptegei was brought to the facility after an altercation with her partner, Dickson Ndiema. Ndiema, who had purchased a jerrican of petrol, poured it over Cheptegei and set her on fire during a dispute that occurred on Sunday. Ndiema, who was also injured in the incident, is currently receiving medical care at the same hospital.
Cheptegei’s parents revealed that she had acquired land in Trans Nzoia County to be close to the area’s athletic training centers. A local report indicates that the couple had been arguing about the land where their house was built prior to the attack.
Trans Nzoia County Police Commander Jeremiah ole Kosiom provided details about the case, confirming the nature of the dispute and the tragic outcome.
