Tragic Loss: Ugandan Marathon Runner Dies After Brutal Attack

Rebecca Cheptegei, a Ugandan Olympic marathon runner, has tragically passed away after being set on fire by her boyfriend. She sustained burns on over 75% of her body, making her the third female athlete to die in similar circumstances since October 2021. Her death was confirmed by Uganda's Olympics committee head, Donald Rukare.

(Adds details, background) NAIROBI, Sept 5 (Reuters) -

Rebecca Cheptegei, a Ugandan Olympic marathon runner, has tragically died after being set on fire by her boyfriend, officials confirmed on Thursday. The attack, which occurred in Kenya on Sunday, left Cheptegei with severe burns covering over 75% of her body. She is the third female athlete to suffer such a fate in the region since October 2021.

"We have learnt of the sad passing on of our Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei following a vicious attack by her boyfriend," said Uganda Olympics Committee president Donald Rukare in a post on X. "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."

Cheptegei, who placed 44th in the Paris Olympics, regularly trained in Kenya, where she also owned a house.

(With inputs from agencies.)