Rebecca Cheptegei Obituary, Death; – Reports indicate that the individual accused of setting Ugandan Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei on fire, resulting in her death, has also succumbed to his burn injuries.
Hospital representatives confirmed to BBC and NPR that Dickson Ndiema passed away on Monday night due to the wounds he sustained when he ignited Cheptegei earlier this month. As reported by the Associated Press, the incident occurred at Cheptegei’s residence in Kenya on September 1.
Cheptegei, who was 33 years old, died on September 5 at the hospital where she was receiving treatment for severe burns covering 80% of her body. She had recently participated in the women’s marathon at the Paris Olympics, finishing in 44th place less than a month prior to the attack.
Authorities confirmed to the Associated Press that Ndiema, Cheptegei’s former partner, purchased gasoline, doused her with it, and set her on fire during a dispute on September. A police report indicated that the argument revolved around the property on which Cheptegei’s home was situated.
The Uganda Athletics Federation expressed their condolences for Cheptegei on the social media platform X, stating, “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.”
