A Ugandan athlete residing in Kenya suffered severe burns after being set on fire by her boyfriend, according to the police. Rebecca Cheptegei, a marathon runner who placed 44th in the 2024 Paris Olympics with a time of two hours, 32 minutes, and 14 seconds, was reportedly attacked in her home in Trans Nzoia County.
Police commander Jeremiah ole Kosiom stated that Cheptegei’s boyfriend, Dickson Ndiema, purchased petrol, poured it on her, and ignited it during a dispute on Sunday, September 1. Ndiema also sustained burns. Both are undergoing specialised care at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret city.
Cheptegei’s parents mentioned that she bought land in Trans Nzoia to be close to various athletic training centres in the area. A report from the local chief indicated that the couple was heard arguing about the land where the house was located before the fire broke out.
Mzee Joseph Cheptegei is pleading for justice for his daughter Ugandan athlete Rebecca Cheptegei who is in critical condition after she sustained more than 80 percent burns during an attack in Trans Nzoia. https://t.co/JlaYgW4ys3 pic.twitter.com/cIWaaDJ2VQ
— TheStarKenya (@TheStarKenya) September 4, 2024
Local news outlets report that Cheptegei is in critical condition. The Ugandan Athletics Federation (UAF) addressed the incident on social media. “We regret to announce that our athlete Rebecca Cheptegei, who competed at the Olympics, has suffered severe injuries and is hospitalized at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret,” the organisation posted on Twitter on September 3.
The public has since shared their well wishes for Cheptegei’s recovery from this tragic incident. “Wishing her a quick recovery,” commented one person. Another echoed: “Sad to hear this. Wish her a quick recovery.” “No words. Sending the best wishes for her recovery,” added another.
“This is so tragic. Wishing her a good and speedy recovery, and hoping that she gets justice,” wrote someone else. Unfortunately, Cheptegei’s case isn’t isolated. In 2022, Kenyan-born Bahraini athlete Damaris Muthee was found dead, with a post-mortem revealing strangulation. In 2021, two-time World Athletics Championships bronze medallist Agnes Tirop was discovered stabbed to death.
Olympian Rebecca Cheptegei in critical condition after her boyfriend set her on fire https://t.co/ZLtFvzmuTb pic.twitter.com/I4nZqxwtMC
— Kaiser@Celebitchy (@KaiseratCB) September 4, 2024
If you are experiencing domestic violence, help is available. You can talk to the national domestic violence helpline confidentially 24 hours a day at 1.800.799.SAFE (7233). Local resources can also be found here.
What Other Media Are Saying
- CBS News reports that Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei was set on fire by her boyfriend Dickson Ndiema in Kenya, resulting in severe burns covering 75% of her body, with Ndiema also sustaining burns. The incident occurred during an argument over land ownership.(read more)
- TMZ reports that Olympic marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei was set on fire by her boyfriend Dickson Ndiema after an argument over property, leaving her with severe burn injuries.(read more)
- People reports that Olympic marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei was set on fire by her boyfriend Nickson Ndiema in a gasoline attack, leaving her with 75% burns.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Who is Rebecca Cheptegei?
Rebecca Cheptegei is a Ugandan distance runner who competed in the 2024 Paris Olympics marathon.
What happened to Rebecca Cheptegei?
Rebecca Cheptegei was set on fire by her boyfriend during a disagreement and is receiving treatment for 75% burns.
Where is Rebecca Cheptegei receiving treatment?
Rebecca Cheptegei is receiving specialized treatment at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, Kenya.
What led to the attack on Rebecca Cheptegei?
The attack occurred during a disagreement over land where Cheptegei’s house was built, according to a report by the local chief.
How can someone get help if experiencing domestic violence?
You can call the national domestic violence helpline at 1.800.799.SAFE (7233) for confidential support 24/7.