Dickson Ndiema, the ex-partner of Ugandan Olympian Rebecca Cheptegei, has died in a Kenyan hospital after setting Cheptegei on fire last week. The hospital in Eldoret confirmed Ndiema’s death on Monday, although the exact cause has not been disclosed. According to The Star, a Kenyan newspaper, Ndiema had suffered burns on 30 percent of his body, which may have contributed to his death.

The incident occurred in Kenya’s Trans-Nzoia district when Ndiema attacked Cheptegei, 33, as she returned home with her children after a church service. Ndiema doused her with petrol and set her alight. Cheptegei was rushed to a hospital with over 80 percent of her body covered in burns and tragically passed away shortly after. Ndiema, who was also injured in the attack, was taken to the same hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries just days later.

Ndiema’s actions have shocked the public and brought attention to the severe consequences of domestic violence. The details surrounding his death remain unclear, as the hospital has not released further information about his condition prior to passing. Ndiema’s death means he will not face legal consequences for his actions, leaving questions and frustration among those seeking justice for Cheptegei.

Cheptegei, an accomplished athlete who recently finished 44th in the Olympic marathon in Paris, will be laid to rest with a military funeral due to her service with the Uganda Peoples’ Defense Forces (UPDF). After an autopsy in Eldoret, her body will be transported to Endebess for a public viewing on Thursday, followed by a vigil in Bukwo, Uganda, on Friday. The burial is set for Saturday, with high-ranking officials from both Kenya and Uganda expected to attend.

This tragic event has not only devastated Cheptegei’s family and community but also underscores the urgent need to address domestic violence and its tragic outcomes.