Tragedy Strikes: Ugandan Olympian Rebecca Cheptegei Dies in Horrific Attack

Ugandan Olympian Rebecca Cheptegei has died following a brutal attack by her partner, leaving 80% of her body burned. She was treated at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, Kenya, but succumbed to organ failure. The incident occurred just weeks after competing in the Paris Olympics.

Tragedy struck the athletics world as Ugandan Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei succumbed to injuries sustained in a horrific attack by her partner. Cheptegei, who was 33, was being treated at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, Kenya, after 80% of her body was burned.

A spokesperson from the hospital, Owen Menach, confirmed Cheptegei's passing on Thursday. He reported that the long-distance runner experienced organ failure despite being fully sedated upon admission. Cheptegei's death has sent shockwaves across the sports community.

Only weeks earlier, Cheptegei had competed in the women's marathon at the Paris Olympics, where she finished in 44th place. Her tragic demise has sparked widespread condemnation of domestic violence, with calls for justice from her family and sports officials. The Uganda Athletics Federation and Olympic Committee expressed their grief and demanded accountability for the senseless act.

(With inputs from agencies.)