Olympian Rebecca Cheptegei’s Ex-Boyfriend Dies from Injuries After Fatal Fire Attack
Dickson Ndiema, the ex-boyfriend of Ugandan Olympian Rebecca Cheptegei, has died from injuries sustained during a violent domestic incident that tragically ended the life of the renowned runner. According to local reports, Ndiema succumbed to his injuries in a hospital following the brutal attack on Cheptegei.
Ndiema had suffered severe burns in the September 1st incident, in which he allegedly set Cheptegei ablaze after an argument over property outside her home. Cheptegei, who sustained burns covering 80% of her body, passed away days later from multiple organ failures.
Kenya’s Mo Teaching and Referral Hospital CEO, Dr. Philip Kirwa, confirmed Ndiema’s death, stating, “He developed respiratory failure due to severe airway burns and sepsis, leading to his death on Monday at 6:30 PM, despite life-saving efforts.”
Rebecca Cheptegei, aged 33, had just competed in the 2024 Olympics in Paris and had represented Uganda in numerous international events, including the IAAF World Cross Country Championships and World Athletics Championships. In 2022, she won the Padova Marathon in Italy, setting a Ugandan marathon record with a time of 2:22:47.
Cheptegei was laid to rest in her hometown of Kapkoros, Bukwo District, Uganda. The Uganda Athletics Federation expressed their grief, stating, “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our athlete, Rebecca Cheptegei, who tragically fell victim to domestic violence.”
This devastating loss has left the athletic community mourning the death of one of Uganda’s most accomplished athletes.