Olympic athlete dies days after being set on hearth by ex-boyfriend

Olympian Rebecca Cheptegei died days after her ex-boyfriend doused her in petrol and set her on hearth.

The 33-year-old Ugandan marathon runner, who competed within the latest Paris Olympics, suffered in depth burns following Sunday’s assault.

Authorities in northwestern Kenya, the place Cheptegei lives and trains, stated she was focused after returning residence from church.

A report filed by native directors stated the athlete and her ex-partner had been preventing over a chunk of land. Police stated the investigation is ongoing.

There are considerations over rising circumstances of violence in opposition to feminine athletes in Kenya, a number of of whom have been killed in recent times.

Her father, Joseph Cheptegei, advised reporters exterior the hospital the place she was being handled that he had misplaced a “very supportive” daughter and requested the Kenyan authorities to make sure justice was served.

Dr Owen Menach, director of Moi Educating and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, advised native media that the athlete died in any case his organs failed.

“We’re deeply saddened to announce the demise early this morning of our athlete Rebecca Cheptegei, who tragically grew to become a sufferer of home violence. As a federation we condemn such habits and name for justice. Could her soul relaxation in peace. The Uganda Athletics Federation posted on.

The athlete died in any case her organs failed, Dr Owen Menach, director of her Moi Educating and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, advised native media.

Cheptegei’s ex-boyfriend was additionally taken to the hospital, however suffered minor burns. Dr. Menachi stated he stays in intensive care however his situation is “enhancing and secure.”

“The couple was heard arguing exterior the home. Native media quoted native police chief Jeremiah Ole Kosim as saying that through the argument, the boyfriend was seen pouring a liquid on the girl, who then suffered burns she.

Ms Cheptegei, who hails from the border area of Uganda, is claimed to have purchased land and constructed a home in Tran Nzoa County, near Kenya’s many sports activities coaching centres.

“This was a cowardly and silly act that resulted within the lack of a fantastic athlete. Her legacy will stay on,” President of the Uganda Olympic Committee Donald Rukare stated.

Her father, Joseph Cheptegei, advised reporters earlier this week that he “needed justice for my daughter,” including that he had by no means seen such inhumane habits in his life.

Cheptegei completed forty fourth within the latest Paris Olympic Marathon.

She additionally received a gold medal on the 2022 World Mountain and Path Operating Championships in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Two years in the past, East African athletes Agnes Tirop and Damaris Mutua had been killed, and their companions had been recognized by authorities as the principle suspects in each circumstances.

Tirop’s husband now faces homicide prices, which he denies, whereas the hunt for Mutua’s boyfriend continues.