Uganda’s Olympian Cheptegei Passes On After Fire Ablaze

Uganda’s long-distance runner Rebecca Cheptegei has tragically passed away in Kenya’s Trans Nzoia County hospital after her ex-boyfriend set her ablaze on last Sunday.

The 33-year-old athlete succumbed to injuries sustained during a domestic altercation with her boyfriend, Nickson Ndiema on a land dispute issue between them .

According to local reports, Ndiema allegedly doused Cheptegei in petrol before setting her on fire at their residence in Endebess.

Both Cheptegei and Ndiema suffered severe third-degree burns and were initially treated at Kitale Level Four Hospital.

Cheptegei was a well-known athlete, having represented Uganda in the 2024 Paris Olympics. She competed in the 10,000m and the women’s marathon, finishing the marathon in 44th place with a time of 2:32:14, Her compatriots Stella Chesang and Mercyline Chelangat finished 8th and 69th, respectively.

In 2023, Cheptegei had also secured a silver medal at the Padova Women’s Marathon in Italy, further cementing her status as a top athlete.

Dr Donald Rukare, President of the Uganda Olympic Committee (UOC), expressed his deep sorrow over Cheptegei’s untimely death and condemned the act of violence.

Story by : Salifu Zakari Zeba . Ahotor sports Desk