Ugandan Athlete’s Father Reveals Tussle That Led to Attack on Daughter
In a tragic turn of events that has stunned the sports world, Ugandan marathoner Rebecca Cheptegei is now in critical condition at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) in Eldoret.
The 33-year-old Olympian, who recently competed for Uganda in the 2024 Paris Games, suffered life-threatening burns after her ex-boyfriend set her on fire in a shocking act of violence.
Details of the attack
The attack took place on Sunday in Chumeek village, Kinyoro, Trans Nzoia County. According to Cheptegei’s father, her ex-boyfriend, Dickson Ndiema, allegedly poured petrol over her and ignited it outside her residence.
This brutal assault is reportedly linked to an ongoing land dispute.
Visibly shaken, Cheptegei’s father described the assailant as someone who had been harassing his daughter for months.
Cheptegei’s dire condition
Doctors at MTRH report that Cheptegei has sustained burns covering more than 80% of her body, with significant damage to both her skin and respiratory system.
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“The extent of the burns is approximately 80%, and many of them are extremely deep,” said MTRH acting CEO Dr. Owen Minach.
The severity of her injuries has raised serious concerns about the risk of multi-organ failure, a frequent complication in such severe burn cases.
Despite the bleak outlook, the medical team remains committed to stabilizing her condition, with hopes for further rehabilitation if she survives the critical initial period.
“When skin is compromised to this degree, we administer comprehensive antibiotics and utilize other advanced technologies to prevent the body from progressing into multi-organ failure,” Dr. Minach added.
A family in despair
Cheptegei’s father expressed deep anguish, noting that her daughters are struggling to come to terms with the situation.
The children were at church during the attack and are now under the care of their grandmother.
He has also called on authorities to ensure that justice is served and that the perpetrator is held accountable.
Ugandan Athlete’s Father Reveals Tussle That Led to Attack on Daughter
