By Debra Rono
Ugandan long-distance runner Rebbeca Cheptegei has tragically passed away while receiving treatment at the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) after suffering severe burns covering 80% of her body.
She succumbed to her injuries on Thursday, as confirmed by Dr. Ownlen Menach, the clinical services director at MTRH, who stated that her death resulted from organ failure.
Reports indicate that Cheptegei sustained these injuries after her alleged boyfriend, Dickson Ndiema Maragach, attacked her by dousing her with petrol and igniting it. It is reported that Maragach entered her home while she was away and assaulted her upon her return.
The Ugandan Athletics Federation announced her passing on their X account, urging for justice for this “victim of domestic violence.”
“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our athlete, Rebecca Cheptegei early this morning who tragically fell victim to domestic violence. As a federation, we condemn such acts and call for justice. May her soul rest In Peace,” the statement read.
Rebbeca Cheptegei put Uganda on the world map after winning the 2022 Padova Marathon in Italy with a time of 2:31:21. She finished third in the 2023 Firenze Marathon before representing Uganda in the 2024 Olympics in Paris, where she placed 44th in the women’s marathon won by Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands.
Kenyan National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula has expressed condolences, describing Cheptegei as an exceptional athlete and calling for a thorough investigation.
“I join fellow Kenyans, Ugandans, and all who knew and loved Rebecca Cheptegei in mourning her tragic passing. As a remarkable athlete, her spirit and dedication inspired so many,” he stated in a post on X.
“While we honour her memory, we also recognize the gravity of the circumstances surrounding her loss, and we trust the ongoing investigation will bring justice swiftly,” he added.