In a heartfelt tribute to Ugandan marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei, a sports site in Paris has been renamed in her honor following her tragic death.
Cheptegei’s life was cut short after she was tragically burned alive by her former partner.
A Tragic Incident
On Thursday, Rebecca Cheptegei, 33, succumbed to severe injuries after being doused in petrol and set on fire at her home.
The brutal attack, which took place on Sunday, left her with burns covering 80 percent of her body.
The horrific incident was allegedly carried out by her ex-boyfriend.
Cheptegei was rushed to the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, Kenya, in a desperate attempt to stabilize her condition.
Sadly, despite the medical team’s efforts, Dr. Owen Menach, the acting director of the facility, confirmed her passing.
Paris Pays Tribute
In response to this tragic loss, Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo announced that a sports facility in the city would be renamed to honor Cheptegei.
“Paris will not forget her,” Hidalgo stated.
“We will dedicate a sports site to her memory, ensuring that her legacy and the message of equality she represented continue to inspire.”
Hidalgo reflected on Cheptegei’s impact, noting, “She dazzled us with her beauty, strength, and freedom.
It is perhaps these very qualities that were unbearable to the person responsible for this crime.”
The Attack and Investigation
Cheptegei, who had recently moved to western Trans Nzoia County, Kenya, to be closer to top training facilities, was attacked at her new home near the Ugandan border.
Kenyan police reported that her ex-partner, Dickson Ndiema, purchased petrol, poured it on her, and set her ablaze during a domestic dispute.
At the crime scene, authorities found a five-liter jerry can, a bag, and a burnt phone.
Police Commander Jeremiah ole Kosiom confirmed that Ndiema had sneaked into Cheptegei’s home to carry out the attack.
Reactions and Calls for Justice
The Uganda Olympic Committee (UOC) President Donald Rukare expressed deep sorrow over Cheptegei’s death, calling it a “cowardly and senseless act.”
Rukare also urged law enforcement to act swiftly to bring the perpetrator to justice.
World Athletics President Sebastian Coe mourned the loss, noting Cheptegei’s remarkable talent and potential.
“Our sport has lost a versatile and promising athlete,” Coe said.
Rebecca Cheptegei’s father, Joseph Cheptegei, revealed that the conflict may have stemmed from a dispute over land and noted that his daughter’s children are from a different relationship.
He also indicated that the investigation into the case is ongoing.
As the world grapples with this tragedy, the focus remains on honoring Rebecca Cheptegei’s memory and ensuring justice for her untimely death.
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