Ugandan runner Rebecca Cheptegei faced tragic events after the 2024 Olympics: arson by her boyfriend
3 september 2024 в 21:13
Ugandan runner Rebecca Cheptegei faced tragic events a week after the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, where her boyfriend Dixon Ndiema set her on fire. The 33-year-old Olympic champion, who finished 44th in the women’s marathon, suffered burns on 75 percent of her body, according to police.
The Associated Press reported that on Sunday, September 1, a conflict occurred between her and Dixon, leading to him buying a can of gasoline, pouring it on her, and setting her on fire. Both Cheptegei and Ndiema are receiving treatment at the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, as Ndiema also suffered burns.
Trans Nzoia County Police Commander Jeremiah ole Kosiom told the BBC, «The couple was heard arguing outside their home. During the argument, witnesses saw the man pouring liquid on the woman and then setting her on fire». The argument reportedly took place on a piece of land that Cheptegei recently acquired to be closer to sports training centers.
Dr. Owen Benah, who is treating Cheptegei at the hospital, stated that she remains «completely sedated due to the extent of her burns». Her father, Joseph Cheptegei, told journalists that he is seeking «justice» for his daughter. Fighting for her life, it was revealed that she has two children from another man. Referring to Dixon’s attack, her father shared with The Star, «They were just friends, and I don’t understand why he wanted to take things belonging to my daughter».
After the news, Rebecca received immense support on social media. «This is so unfortunate. Speedy recovery to Rebecca», - commented one user.
Another added, «This is getting worse; I think our athletes should be more careful when they are out there!»
A third person wrote, «This is so sad. Speedy recovery, Cheptegei».
Rebecca has been competing as a professional runner since the beginning of her career in 2010.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1−800−799−7233 for confidential support
The Associated Press reported that on Sunday, September 1, a conflict occurred between her and Dixon, leading to him buying a can of gasoline, pouring it on her, and setting her on fire. Both Cheptegei and Ndiema are receiving treatment at the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, as Ndiema also suffered burns.
Trans Nzoia County Police Commander Jeremiah ole Kosiom told the BBC, «The couple was heard arguing outside their home. During the argument, witnesses saw the man pouring liquid on the woman and then setting her on fire». The argument reportedly took place on a piece of land that Cheptegei recently acquired to be closer to sports training centers.
Dr. Owen Benah, who is treating Cheptegei at the hospital, stated that she remains «completely sedated due to the extent of her burns». Her father, Joseph Cheptegei, told journalists that he is seeking «justice» for his daughter. Fighting for her life, it was revealed that she has two children from another man. Referring to Dixon’s attack, her father shared with The Star, «They were just friends, and I don’t understand why he wanted to take things belonging to my daughter».
After the news, Rebecca received immense support on social media. «This is so unfortunate. Speedy recovery to Rebecca», - commented one user.
Another added, «This is getting worse; I think our athletes should be more careful when they are out there!»
A third person wrote, «This is so sad. Speedy recovery, Cheptegei».
Rebecca has been competing as a professional runner since the beginning of her career in 2010.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1−800−799−7233 for confidential support
© Kolganov Andrey
