A competitor in the 2024 Summer Olympics has tragically passed away at just 33 years old after a senseless act of violence.
Rebecca Cheptegei, a marathon runner for Uganda who competed in the Paris Olympics this summer, was assaulted by her boyfriend in Kenya over the weekend. According to a report from The Guardian, she was set on fire by her boyfriend, Dickson Ndiema, after a disagreement.
Cheptegei suffered serious burns all over her body and passed, the Uganda Athletics Federation announced on Thursday.
BREAKING NEWS💔💔
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. pic.twitter.com/ZdxmZ3wDuE— UGANDA ATHLETICS FEDERATION🇺🇬🇺🇬 UAF (@UgaAthletics2) September 5, 2024
“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 Uganda Athletics Federation said in a statement.
Donald Rukare, president of Uganda Olympics Committee commented on the tragedy as well.
“We have learned of the sad passing on of our Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei OLY following a vicious attack by her boyfriend. 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.”
It’s a tragic loss after a senseless act of violence.
