Ugandan marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei in critical condition after alleged petrol attack by ex-boyfriend
Ugandan marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei is in critical condition at a Kenyan hospital after allegedly being attacked by a former boyfriend, who reportedly doused her with petrol and set her on fire.
The 33-year-old athlete, who recently competed in the Paris Olympics, has suffered burns covering over 75% of her body, according to police.
Cheptegei was assaulted at her home in Endebess, western Kenya, where she had been training. Neighbors rescued her following the attack.
The alleged perpetrator, who also sustained severe burns, is receiving treatment at Moi Referral Hospital in Eldoret along with Cheptegei.
Local police chief Jeremiah ole Kosiom reported that the incident occurred during an argument, with the boyfriend seen pouring a liquid on Cheptegei before igniting it.
The violence highlights a troubling trend of attacks against female athletes in Kenya.
Cheptegei, originally from Uganda, had recently purchased land in Trans Nzoia county to be closer to Kenya’s athletic training facilities.
Reports suggest that the couple had disputes over this property. The police are investigating the incident.
Cheptegei, who finished 44th in the marathon at the Paris Olympics, also won gold at the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships in 2022.
This attack follows other recent tragedies in the athletic community, including the murder of Damaris Mutua in Rift Valley and the stabbing death of Agnes Tirop in Iten.
In December, Ugandan runner Benjamin Kiplagat was also fatally stabbed in Eldoret.
The rise in violence against athletes, including both women and men, is raising significant concerns within the sports community.
Source-BBC
