Ugandan Athlete Rebecca Cheptegei Hospitalized After Brutal Fire Attack by Kenyan Partner

Ugandan Athlete Rebecca Cheptegei Hospitalized After Brutal Fire Attack by Kenyan Partner

Ugandan marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei and her Kenyan partner, Dickson Ndiema Marangach, are currently recovering at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, following a violent domestic dispute that led to a fire incident in Kinyoro, Trans Nzoia County.

As reported by Kinyoro area chief Madam Rose Chebet, the incident took place on Sunday around 2 pm when Mr. Marangach allegedly sneaked into their compound while Ms. Cheptegei and their children were attending church.

Armed with petrol, he reportedly doused Ms. Cheptegei with the flammable liquid before setting her on fire. Unfortunately, Mr. Marangach also caught fire when he lit a matchstick, resulting in a tragic scene.

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Quick-thinking neighbors managed to extinguish the flames and immediately rushed the couple to Kitale County Referral Hospital for treatment of severe burn injuries. They were later transferred to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital for further medical attention.

At the scene of the incident, authorities discovered a five-liter yellow jerry can, a bag, and a black Marvin, believed to belong to Mr. Marangach. Additionally, a burnt mobile phone, thought to be Ms. Cheptegei’s, was recovered.

Trans Nzoia County Deputy County Commander Salesio Murithi confirmed the incident, noting that investigations are currently ongoing.

Cheptegei recently participated in the women’s marathon at the Paris Olympic Games last month, where she competed alongside teammates Stella Chesang and Mercyline Chelangat, finishing in 48th place.

In 2022, she also claimed gold in the Up and Downhill race at the 2021 World Mountain and Trail Running Championships held in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Ugandan Athlete Rebecca Cheptegei Hospitalized After Brutal Fire Attack by Kenyan Partner