Ugandan athlete Rebecca Cheptegei has been hospitalised at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret following a violent attack by her partner, Dickson Ndiema Marangach. The shocking incident occurred on Sunday, September 2, in Kinyoro, Trans-Nzoia County.

According to local reports, Cheptegei, a Paris Olympian known for her 10,000-meter runs, was attacked after returning from church. Marangach allegedly sneaked into her home while Cheptegei and their children were out. Upon her return, a heated argument escalated into violence. Marangach reportedly poured petrol on Cheptegei and set her on fire. During the chaos, Marangach also sustained burns.

Area Chief Rose Chebet reported that Cheptegei’s screams alerted neighbours, who then rushed both the athlete and Marangach to Kitale Level Four Hospital. Unfortunately, Cheptegei’s injuries were severe, with reports indicating she suffered 75 percent burns.

The Uganda Athletics Federation (UAF) issued a statement on Tuesday expressing their deep concern. “We regret to announce that our athlete Rebecca Cheptegei, who competed at the Olympics, has suffered severe injuries and is hospitalised at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret. This follows an incident involving her Kenyan boyfriend pouring petrol and setting fire to her,” the statement said.

Trans Nzoia County Police Commander Jeremiah Ole Kosiom confirmed the details of the attack, noting that police found a 5-litre yellow jerrycan, a bag, a black beanie believed to belong to Marangach, and a burnt mobile phone at the scene.

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Cheptegei, who recently competed in the Paris Olympics marathon and finished 48th, is currently fighting for her life. She is known for her participation in the 2021 World Mountain and Trail Running Championships. Marangach is expected to face charges in court once investigations are complete.