Kenyan Olympic marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei, who runs for Uganda, is fighting for her life after her lover, Dickson Ndiema set her on fire. The violent domestic incident occured on Sunday, September 1, after the two argued at her home in Trans Nzoia County, Eldoret.
Rebecca Cheptegei and Lover Tragic Fight
Cheptegei, 33, had earlier attended church with her two children, when Ndiema allegedly sneaked into her home. He came armed with a jerry can of petrol and a lighter as he waited for her return.
According to local chief Rose Chebet, an argument broke out when Cheptegei arrived. The two were arguing over a house and a plot of land.
And this led Ndiema to douse the athlete with petrol and set her on fire.
Ironically, Ndiema also caught fire while attempting to ignite the match.
Immediate Response
Neighbors quickly rushed to the scene after hearing screams and managed to extinguish the flames.
Both Cheptegei and Ndiema sustained severe burns and were initially taken to Kitale Referral Hospital.
Due to the extent of their injuries, they were later transferred to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, where Cheptegei remains in critical condition.
Cheptegei, who finished 44th in the 10,000-meter women’s marathon at the 2024 Paris Olympics, suffered burns covering 75% of her body. She finished 44th. Notably, she won gold at the 2022 Padova Marathon.
At the scene, police found a yellow jerry can, a charred mobile phone believed to be Cheptegei’s, and a black mavin that is suspected to belong to Ndiema.
Family, friends, and supporters of Cheptegei are now demanding justice.
By Vivian K.