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Ugandan Olympic Marathon Runner Rebecca Cheptegei Dies After Horrific Attack in Kenya
Ugandan Olympic marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei has tragically died after being attacked by her boyfriend in Kenya. Our thoughts are with her family. Violence against women must end.
ND
by News Desk
2024-09-05
Ugandan Olympic Marathon Runner Rebecca Cheptegei Dies After Horrific Attack in Kenya

Ugandan Olympic marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei has died following a horrific attack in Kenya. The 33-year-old athlete, who competed in the Paris Olympics, succumbed to injuries sustained when she was doused in petrol and set on fire by her boyfriend.
Cheptegei, who suffered burns to more than 75% of her body, had been receiving treatment at a hospital in Eldoret, a city in Kenya's Rift Valley, following the attack on Sunday. Her death has sent shockwaves through the sporting community and highlighted the ongoing issue of violence against women.
Donald Rukare, president of the Uganda Olympics Committee, expressed deep sorrow at Cheptegei's passing. "We have learnt of the sad passing on of our Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei... following a vicious attack by her boyfriend," Rukare posted on social media. He condemned the violence and extended condolences to Cheptegei's family, stating, "May her gentle soul rest in peace and we strongly condemn violence against women."
Cheptegei, who finished 44th in the marathon event at the Paris Olympics, is the third prominent female athlete to be killed in Kenya since October 2021. Her death underscores the urgent need for increased efforts to address and prevent violence against women.
The circumstances of her attack have drawn widespread condemnation and calls for justice. The Kenyan authorities are expected to intensify their investigation into the case as the world mourns the loss of a talented and promising athlete.
Tagged:

Kenya

EndViolence

StopViolenceAgainstWomen

JusticeForRebecca

OlympicAthlete
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