For the first time since the attack, photos of the man accused of setting Olympic runner Rebecca Cheptegei on fire have been made public.
Cheptegei, 33, succumbed to her injuries after suffering severe burns in the incident which occurred on Sunday (September 1), just a few weeks following her participation in Paris 2024.
Authorities in north-west Kenya, where Cheptegei resided, reported that the Olympian was targeted upon her return home from church with her two daughters.
Dr. Kimani Mbugua, a consultant at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, stated that Cheptegei’s ‘severe’ burns resulted in multiple organ failure, which led to her death.
Dickson Ndiema, her ex-boyfriend, is accused of the attack and has also been hospitalized with burns.
His condition is reportedly ‘improving and stable’.
As tributes continue to pour in for Cheptegei, the initial images of Ndiema have emerged.
One photograph, taken from social media, shows Ndiema looking at the camera while wearing a beige jacket adorned with an American flag on the front.
Jeremiah Ole Kosiom, the Trans Nzoia County Police Commander, claimed that Ndiema poured petrol on Cheptegei before igniting the fire.
He told the Kenyan newspaper The Standard: “The couple were heard quarrelling outside their house. During the altercation, the boyfriend was seen pouring a liquid on the woman before burning her.
“The suspect was also caught by the fire and sustained serious burns.”
Cheptegei’s father, Joseph Cheptegei, remembered her as ‘very supportive’ and expressed concerns for her children’s futures following her death.
Uganda’s athletics federation also paid tribute to Cheptegei on Twitter, saying: “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.”
Donald Rukare, head of Uganda’s Olympic committee, also denounced the act, saying: “This was a cowardly and senseless act that has led to the loss of a great athlete. Her legacy will continue to endure.”
Joseph Cheptegei has called for justice in the case, criticizing the fact that Ndiema is ‘still free’ after the attack. Police have indicated that an investigation into Cheptegei’s death is ongoing.
Kenya’s sports minister has urged authorities to step up efforts to combat gender-based violence. According to a 2022 national survey, at least 34 percent of women in Kenya reported experiencing physical violence.
If you are experiencing domestic violence, please know that you are not alone. You can talk in confidence 24 hours a day to the national domestic violence helpline on 1.800.799.SAFE (7233). For a list of local resources, click here.