The sports world is mourning the loss of Ugandan marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei, who passed away after a brutal attack by her boyfriend. The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon in Eldoret, Kenya, leaving Cheptegei with severe burns to over 75% of her body.
According to local media reports, Cheptegei was doused with petrol by her boyfriend, identified as Daniel Ndiema Marangach. The attack, described as a domestic dispute, resulted in both parties sustaining burns.
Cheptegei, who represented Uganda in the recent Paris 2024 Olympics, had been in critical condition at a hospital in Eldoret since the attack.
The news of her passing was confirmed by Donald Rukare, president of the Uganda Olympics Committee, in a post on X.
“We have learnt of the sad passing on of our Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei…following a vicious attack by her boyfriend,” Rukare wrote.
This tragic incident highlights the devastating impact of domestic violence and serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address this pervasive issue.
