Trans Nzoia, Kenya | By Michael Wandati | Ugandan marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei, who recently competed in the Paris Olympics, has suffered severe burns covering more than 75 percent of her body. This tragic incident reportedly occurred after her boyfriend allegedly doused her with petrol, as reported by local media on Monday.
The individual accused of the attack, Dickson Ndiema Marangach, is also hospitalized in the same ICU at the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret.
Dr. Owen Menach, the acting CEO of the hospital, confirmed that both individuals are receiving treatment in the ICU. He is anticipated to provide an update on their conditions.
Rebecca Cheptegei is currently in critical condition at a hospital in Eldoret, Kenya, following the attack that took place on Sunday afternoon. Both Kenyan and Ugandan newspapers have covered the story extensively.
According to Trans Nzoia County Police Commander Jeremiah Ole Kosiom, the boyfriend also sustained burns during the incident, which has been described as a domestic dispute.
“The man was also caught in the same fire and sustained serious burns,” said Trans Nzoia police commander Jeremiah Ole Kosiom.
Investigations revealed that the couple had been engaged in frequent disputes over a plot of land and a house.
On Sunday, the man reportedly entered their home covertly with a five-liter container of petrol. Cheptegei had gone to church with their children, and upon her return, he allegedly doused her with petrol and set her on fire. Neighbors, hearing the commotion, intervened and helped both individuals, who were then rushed to the hospital in critical condition.
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Ms Cheptegei’s parents, Joseph Cheptegei and Agnes Ndiema, initially took her to Kitale Level Four Hospital before she was transferred to MTRH. Though they reside in Uganda, they traveled to Trans Nzoia to understand more about the attack that occurred.
The 33-year-old Cheptegei, who placed 44th at the Paris Olympics, a resident in Uganda, had purchased land in western Trans Nzoia County and built a house where she stayed during her training periods.
Authorities have announced that an investigation into the incident is underway.
