Ugandan Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei has tragically succumbed to injuries sustained in a horrific incident involving her boyfriend, who allegedly poured petrol on her and set her on fire in Kenya. The 33-year-old athlete was admitted to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital following the attack that occurred on Sunday, September 1.

Her boyfriend, Nickson Marangach, reportedly found Cheptegei at her home and, in a fit of rage, doused her with petrol and ignited the flames, resulting in burns to both of them. While both were hospitalized, Cheptegei unfortunately passed away this morning.

Recently returned from the Paris Olympics, Cheptegei had been experiencing relationship troubles that led to a separation from Marangach, although family members were attempting to mediate. Her father, Joseph Cheptegei, confirmed the heartbreaking news of her death, highlighting that his daughter was the primary breadwinner for their family.

The Minister for Education and Sports, Janet Kataha Museveni, expressed her condolences, stating, “The news of our daughter, Rebecca Cheptegei's tragic death due to domestic violence is deeply disturbing. My heartfelt condolences go out to the athletics community, her family, friends, and the entire nation on the loss of our Olympian. May her family find the strength to cope with this loss, and may her soul rest in eternal peace.”