Rebecca Cheptegei was a beloved Ugandan Olympian who made a name for herself as a marathon runner. She tragically lost her life after an incident with her ex-boyfriend. Photos reveal the identity of the man believed to be behind her death.
Rebecca Cheptegeis inspiring journey as a record-setting Olympian came to a tragic end in a horrific incident that left many in shock. The 33-year-old athlete suffered fatal burns after a violent attack at her home.
Rebecca Cheptegei of Team Uganda and other female athletes competing in the Womens Marathon during day eight of the World Athletics Championships Budapest 2023 on August 26 in Hungary. | Source: Getty Images
As the shocking details emerge about her death and the events leading up to it, the spotlight turned to her ex-boyfriend, whose identity has reportedly come to light.
Rebecca Cheptegei – A Trailblazer in Athletics
Rebecca Cheptegei was a celebrated Ugandan athlete who made her mark on the international stage over the past 15 years. Known for her versatility, she competed in major championships on the track, roads, cross-country, and mountains, consistently representing her nation with pride.
Rebecca Cheptegei competing in the Womens Marathon Final during the World Athletics Championships in Budapest on August 26, 2023. | Source: Getty Images
Her most remarkable achievement came in 2022, when she clinched victory in the up-and-downhill race at the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships, cementing her status as one of the top athletes in her field.
However, Rebeccas marathon journey began in 2021, and she quickly established herself as a formidable competitor. In 2022, she set a Ugandan record of 2:22:47 in her fourth marathon.
Rebecca Cheptegei and fellow athletes competing in the Womens Marathon Final during the World Athletics Championships in Budapest on August 26, 2023. | Source: Getty Images
This impressive feat occurred just six weeks after her world championship win in Chiang Mai, showcasing her extraordinary endurance and talent. Rebecca continued to push her limits, finishing 44th at the Paris 2024 Olympics behind Dutch winner Sifan Hassan.
Beyond her athletic prowess, Rebecca was cherished by those who knew her. Her father, Joseph Cheptegei, mourned the loss of his daughter, who he said was very supportive.
Rebecca Cheptegei holding an ice bag to her head while competing in the Womens Marathon of the Athletics event at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games in France on August 11, 2024. | Source: Getty Images
Fellow Ugandan athlete James Kirwa shared fond memories with the athlete, describing Rebeccas generosity and impact on other athletes.
“[She] was a very affable person. [She] helped us all even financially, and she brought me training shoes when she came back from the Olympics. She was like an older sister to me,” James recalled.
Rebecca Cheptegei photographed during the Womens Marathon Final on day eight of the World Athletics Championships Budapest 2023 on August 26. | Source: Getty Images
The Tragic Fire Incident and the Ex-Boyfriend Behind It
Rebeccas life was tragically cut short after a horrifying incident that left the world in shock. The Olympian died days after being set ablaze by her former boyfriend. The 33-year-old athlete suffered extensive burns after her ex-partner doused her in petrol and set her on fire.
The Moi Teaching and Referral Hospitals CEO said the Ugandan athlete sustained burns on more than 80 percent of her body, with medical professionals working hard to stabilize her.
However, Dr. Kimani Mbugua, a consultant at the hospital, noted that despite the medical teams best efforts, her severe burns led to multiple organ failure. Rebecca sustained both external and inhalation burns and was under critical care at the hospital ICU when she died.
The tragic attack that took her life happened in northwest Kenya, where Rebecca lived and trained. According to authorities, the incident occurred when Rebecca returned home from church with her two daughters.
One of her daughters, who was not named at the time of writing, allegedly witnessed the terrifying assault, reportedly recounting to Kenyan media, “He kicked me while I tried to run to the rescue of my mother.”
Rebecca Cheptegeis father speaking to local media. | Source: YouTube/ KTN News Kenya
The young girls desperate cries for help attracted a neighbor who attempted to extinguish the flames, but it was too late. Rebeccas family broke the heartbreaking news on her Instagram, writing in part, “Dear friends and family of Rebecca Cheptegei, its with a heavy heart that we write this post.”
Rebecca Cheptegeis family member speaking to local media. | Source: YouTube/ KTN News Kenya
“Rebecca sadly died today in the morning hours while undergoing treatment at the hospital. She really fought and tried to be strong and finally took her last breaths surrounded by her children and family,” the post continued.
“Words cant describe how much well miss her. She lit up every room with her sunny smile and always knew how to make people laugh. We know that [Rebecca] touched many lives, and were devastated to have to break this news. She was well-loved and will be missed by many,” the post further read in part.
Rebecca Cheptegeis familys statement following her passing. | Source: Instagram/rebeccacheptegei
Fellow long-distance runner Eilish McColgan also expressed her devastation on social media, sharing, “This is heartbreaking. Even more heartbreaking that its not the first time the athletics community has lost such an incredible female athlete to domestic violence. It needs to stop! RIP Rebecca.”
Rebeccas death not only devastated her family but also sparked outrage within the community and beyond, with Ugandas athletics federation condemning the act of violence on X.
“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our athlete, Rebecca Cheptegei, early this morning who tragically fell victim to domestic violence,” they stated.
“We have lost our breadwinner,” Rebeccas father added, wondering how her two young children, whose father was reportedly not her ex-boyfriend and lived in Uganda, would “proceed with their education.”
Reports suggested that Rebecca and her ex-boyfriend had ongoing disputes over land ownership. The athlete had purchased property in Trans Nzoia County, where she built a house close to Kenyas elite athletics training centers.
Mzee Cheptegei explained that Rebecca and her ex had been separated for a long time and were merely friends. However, on the day of the attack, her ex-boyfriend, revealed to be a man named Dickson Ndiema, allegedly snuck into her home with a five-liter container full of petrol and committed the unthinkable act.
“They were just friends, and I wonder why he wanted to take away things belonging to my daughter,” Mzee expressed. Rebeccas father additionally described his daughters attacker as an “animal” who had tormented her for months.
Rebeccas former boyfriend was also hospitalized with burns, though less severe. According to Dr. Owen Menach, he remained in intensive care but was reported to be in stable condition.
Local police chief Jeremiah Ole Kosiom noted that the couple had been heard arguing outside the home before the attack, which ended with Rebecca being doused in a highly flammable liquid and set on fire.
Rebecca Cheptegeis death has left an irreplaceable void in the world of athletics and among those who knew and loved her. As the investigation continued, her legacy as a dedicated athlete and a generous soul lives on.
