Trans Nzoia, Kenya – Ugandan long-distance runner Rebecca Cheptegei has tragically died from severe burn injuries sustained in a horrific domestic violence attack last Sunday. The Uganda Athletics Federation (UAF) confirmed the athlete’s passing early this morning via their official X (formerly Twitter) account.
“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our athlete, Rebecca Cheptegei, who tragically fell victim to domestic violence,” UAF stated. “As a federation, we condemn such acts and call for justice. May her soul rest in peace.”
Cheptegei, aged 33, was allegedly attacked by her estranged boyfriend, Dickson Ndiema Marangach, in Endebess, Trans Nzoia County, Kenya. Reports indicate that Marangach doused Cheptegei with petrol and set her ablaze following a dispute. The incident occurred as Cheptegei was returning from church with her two children.
Neighbors rescued Cheptegei shortly after the attack, and she was rushed to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret. Despite intensive treatment and battling in the ICU, she succumbed to her injuries, with 80% of her body severely burned.
The tragic death of Cheptegei marks the second loss of a Ugandan athlete due to violence in less than a year. In December, Benjamin Kiplagat was fatally stabbed in Eldoret, Kenya.
Cheptegei had recently purchased land and built a house in Trans Nzoia County to be close to Kenya’s athletic training centers. Her performance included finishing 44th in the marathon at the Paris Olympics and winning gold at the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships in Chiang Mai, Thailand, in 2022.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation of gender-based violence. Many have taken to social media to denounce violence against women, calling for justice and increased protection for victims.
