The couple were heard quarrelling outside their house. During the altercation, the boyfriend was seen pouring a liquid on the woman before burning her,
We have learnt of the sad passing on of our Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei … following a vicious attack by her boyfriend. May her gentle soul rest in peace and we strongly condemn violence against women. This was a cowardly and senseless act that has led to the loss of a great athlete. Her legacy will continue to endure.”
He kicked me while I tried to run to the rescue of my mother,
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.”
I immediately cried out for help, attracting a neighbour who tried to extinguish the flames with water, but it was not possible,
All her organs failed last night,
Cheptegei has developed a bacterial infection of sepsis due to the severe injuries to the stomach and the lower part of the body,
There are efforts to make sure the athlete, who is admitted in Eldoret, is airlifted to Nairobi for specialised treatment,
At the scene, a five-litre yellow jerrican, a bag and a black marvin believed to be for Dickson and a burnt mobile phone believed to be for Rebecca were collected for forensic analysis,
She is a high-profile patient and we are doing all we can to save her life.
It is another case of a life cut short and a talent washed down the drain considering the achievements Damaris had made in her career."
Her condition looks serious with facial burns and bandages,
This follows an incident involving her Kenyan boyfriend pouring petrol and setting fire on her,
Dickson, who had procured petrol, began pouring (it) on Rebecca before he set her ablaze,