Rebecca Cheptegei has died at a Kenyan hospital where she was being treated for burns on over 80 percent of her body after she was set on fire in a gasoline attack on Sunday.
The death of the 33-year-old Cheptegei was confirmed on Thursday. She was listed in serious condition at the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret and suffered multiple organ failure, according to spokesperson Owen Menach.
“Her injuries were extensive and covered most parts of her body,” said Kimani Mbugua, head of the intensive care unit. “It led to multiple organ failure.”
Trans Nzoia County Police official Jeremiah ole Kosiom said that Cheptegei and her partner Dickson Ndiema were in a dispute over land. Ndiema reportedly poured gasoline on Cheptegei and set her on fire after entering her home. He was also injured in the attack and suffered burns to 30 percent of his body — and is in intensive care.
Cheptegei competed for Uganda in the Paris Olympics less than a month ago and finished 44th in the women’s marathon.
Uganda’s athletic federation posted a tribute to Cheptegei on social media shortly after her death was confirmed.
“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 statement read.
Paris city mayor Anne Hidalgo announced on Friday that city officials want to honor Cheptegei by naming a sports venue after her.
“Paris joins its elected representatives in expressing its support for the family of the athlete, victim of a femicide a few weeks after her participation in the Olympic Games,” Paris city hall officials said in a statement.
According to Cheptegei’s father Joseph, his daughter bought land in the Trans Nzoia region, which is near Uganda and Kenya’s border. He said she wanted to live near Uganda’s training facilities and built a house on the land. However, she filed a police report against Ndiema after a dispute over the land. Neighbors said they heard an argument before the fire.
Uganda’s Olympic Committee head Donald Rukare led a series of tributes and released a statement on social media on Thursday.
“May her gentle soul rest in peace and we strongly condemn violence against women,” he said. “This was a cowardly and senseless act that has led to the loss of a great athlete. Her legacy will continue to endure.”
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