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This article contains references that some may find distressing; Ugandan runner Rebecca Cheptegei dies after petrol attack, allegedly by former boyfriend; Cheptegei finished 44th in women’s marathon at 2024 Summer Olympic Games in Paris
Last Updated: 05/09/24 8:26am
Rebecca Cheptegei, a prominent Ugandan athlete, has tragically passed away at the age of 33, following a reported assault involving her former partner.
According to police reports, Cheptegei was allegedly doused in petrol and set ablaze at her residence in Western Kenya, resulting in severe burn injuries.
The Ugandan Athletics Federation took to X to express their grief: “We have learnt of the sad passing of our Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei following a vicious attack by her boyfriend. May her gentle soul rest in peace and we strongly condemn violence against women. This was a cowardly and senseless act that has led to the loss of a great athlete. Her legacy will continue to endure.”
At the recent Paris Olympics, Cheptegei placed 44th in the women’s marathon but made headlines earlier, having secured a gold medal at the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships held in Thailand in 2022.
Her parents revealed that Cheptegei had invested in land in the Trans-Nzoia region, aiming to be closer to some of Kenya’s renowned athletic training facilities, underscoring her commitment to her sport.
Source
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