"I Have Lost a Daughter Who Was Our Support": Rebecca Cheptegei's Father Seeks Justice After Tragic Attack

Ugandan Olympic marathon runner, Rebecca Cheptegei, tragically passed away after succumbing to severe injuries sustained in an attack by her partner. Cheptegei, 33, who competed in the women's marathon at the Paris Olympics just weeks before the incident, was being treated at the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, Kenya, after suffering burns over 80% of her body. She died early Thursday morning after her organs failed, according to hospital spokesperson Owen Menach.

The horrifying attack, which has sent shockwaves across the athletic community, occurred following a dispute between Cheptegei and her partner, Dickson Ndiema. Trans Nzoia County Police Commander Jeremiah ole Kosiom reported that Ndiema poured gasoline on Cheptegei and set her ablaze during a disagreement on Sunday.

Ndiema, who also sustained burns to 30% of his body during the incident, remains hospitalized but is reportedly stable and showing signs of improvement.
Father's Heartbreak and Plea for Justice

In the wake of his daughter's death, Joseph Cheptegei, Rebecca's father, expressed profound sorrow and called for justice. Speaking to journalists at the hospital in Eldoret, Joseph described his daughter as the family's breadwinner and voiced his uncertainty about how the family would cope without her. "I have lost a daughter who has been helping in many ways," he said, visibly distraught. "We have children in secondary schools, and I don't know how we are going to cope with this challenge to ensure they complete their studies."

Joseph also highlighted the deep reliance the family had on Rebecca's support, particularly in funding the education of her younger siblings. His plea extended to the Ugandan government to expedite investigations and ensure that the person responsible for this heinous act is brought to justice. "I want to appeal to the government to safeguard her children and property since we cannot always be available to protect them," Joseph urged.

The family revealed that a property dispute was at the heart of the conflict between Cheptegei and Ndiema. Rebecca had purchased land in Trans Nzoia near athletic training centers, and according to a report by a local chief, the pair had been heard arguing about this land just before the violent attack. Joseph stressed the importance of protecting Rebecca's property and children, as the family feared further complications could arise in the aftermath of her death.

Ndiema's Condition and Investigation

While the family mourns, the police are continuing their investigation into the attack. Ndiema, who remains in the intensive care unit of the same hospital, is under close watch by authorities. His recovery is being monitored, but he is expected to face charges once his condition stabilizes.

This tragic incident has cast a shadow over Rebecca Cheptegei's athletic legacy and has left her family reeling from the loss of not only a daughter but their primary source of support. As the investigation proceeds, her loved ones hope for swift justice in memory of a woman who had given them so much.