Ugandan Olympic runner Rebecca Cheptegei dies at 33 from organ failure after being set on fire by boyfriend

Ugandan Olympic marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei, 33, has died after being burned by her boyfriend. The Uganda Athletics Federation announced Cheptegei's death on Thursday morning.

Cheptegei, who was living in Kenya's Trans Nzoia County, suffered burns on 75% of her body when her boyfriend, Dickson Ndiema, allegedly poured gasoline on her and lit her on fire. The altercation stemmed from a disagreement over land, according to Trans Nzoia County police commander Jeremiah ole Kosiom .

After spending several days in the hospital, Cheptegei died from multi-organ failure.

"We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our athlete, Rebecca Cheptegei early this morning who tragically fell victim to domestic violence," the Uganda Athletics Federation wrote in a statement . "As a federation, we condemn such acts and call for justice. May her soul rest In Peace."

Team Kenya also released a statement on Cheptegei's death and called for an end to gender-based violence.

"Her untimely and tragic passing is a profound loss, and our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time as we honor her legacy and advocate for an end to gender-based violence."

Cheptegei was fresh off her appearance in the Paris Olympics, where she placed 44th in the women's marathon.

Kenya has dealt with a few notable instances of lethal violence against elite female athletes in recent years. In 2021, Olympic runner Agnes Tirop was stabbed to death, and her husband was accused of killing her.

Shortly after that incident, Olympic athlete Damaris Mutua was suffocated to death with a pillow. Her boyfriend was cited as the main suspect in the murder.