The man charged with allegedly burning a Ugandan Olympian has also died.
Rebecca Cheptegei died on September 5 as a result of severe injuries sustained during an alleged land dispute in Kenya.
Dickson Ndiema, her suspected attacker and former partner, died on Monday night in the intensive care unit after sustaining injuries in the incident.
It occurred in the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, the same place where Cheptegei received treatment.
Cheptegei had 80 percent of her body burned, while Ndiema had more than 30 percent burns.
He was accused of purchasing a can of gasoline, pouring it on her, and setting her on fire after an argument.
Ms Cheptegei’s parents informed Kenyan news source The Star that their daughter purchased land in Trans Nzoia to be near the country’s numerous athletic training facilities.
According to a complaint submitted by the local chief, the couple was heard fighting over the site where the house was erected before the fire broke out.
Ms Cheptegei recently raced in the marathon at the 2024 Paris Olympics and finished 44th.
Her involvement was a source of “inspiration” for the International Olympic Committee’s president.
“We are startled and very grieved to learn about Rebecca Cheptegei’s death as a result of the horrific attack against her. Thomas Bach described Rebecca’s participation in the Paris 2024 women’s marathon as a source of inspiration, pride, and joy.
The Ugandan Athletics Federation also paid tribute to Cheptegei in a post on X, expressing sadness at her death, saying: “As a federation, we condemn such atrocities and urge for justice. May her soul rest peacefully.”
Uganda’s Olympic Committee chief, Donald Rukare, added: “This was a cowardly and senseless crime that resulted in the demise of a brilliant athlete. Her legacy will remain.
Cheptegei also placed 14th in the marathon at the 2023 World Championships.
