Rebecca Cheptegei’s Ex-Boyfriend Dies After Setting Her On Fire

(From L to R) Kenya's Rosemary Wanjiru, Israel's Lonah Chemtai Salpeter, Uganda's Rebecca Cheptegei and Kenya's Selly Chepyego Kaptich compete in the women's marathon final during the World Athletics Championships in Budapest on August 26, 2023.
(Photo by Ferenc ISZA / AFP) (Photo by FERENC ISZA/AFP via Getty Images)

The ex-boyfriend of Rebecca Cheptegei, Dickson Ndiema, has died after he set her on fire. 

According to reports, Dickson Ndiema died from respiratory failiure after suffering from severe burns and sepsis with being treated at a hospital in Kenya. Dr. Philip Kirwa confirmed Ndiema’s death on Monday at 6:30 pm.

“Ndiema was admitted on September 2, as a referral from Kitale County Referral Hospital where he has sustained burns over 41 percent of his body. During his stay, he received treatment from a multidisciplinary team in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).”

Dr. Kirwa continued, “At the ICU he developed respiratory failure as a result of the severe airway burns and sepsis that led to his eventual death… despite life-saving measures.” 

We reported that Olympic runner Cheptegei has passed away after being set on fire by her ex-boyfriend. He had poured gasoline on her and set her on fire. She died due to organ failure around 5 am, Dr. Owen Menach, the Director of Clinical Services and Surgery at the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital said. 

Cheptegei’s relative Dr. Tony Sabila also confirmed her death. “It is true that we lost our sister this morning although the doctors tried to save her life and I was there personally.” The Uganda Athletics Federation also spoke about the Olympian’s death. 

“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our athlete, Rebecca Cheptegei early this morning who tragically fell victim to domestic violence. As a federation, we condemn such acts and call for justice. May her soul rest in Peace.”