Olympic runner dies after 'petrol attack by her ex

Star in land row had 80% burns

- LUCY THORNTON

A UGANDAN Olympic marathon runner has died days after being set on fire in an alleged petrol attack by her former boyfriend.

Mum-of-two Rebecca Cheptegei died of organ failure after suffering 80% burns in what has been described as a land dispute with her ex.

The 33-year-old had reportedly been heard arguing with Dickson Ndiema before she was attacked at her home after returning from church with her two daughters, aged nine and 11.

After her death was confirmed yesterday, police commander' Jeremiah ole Kosiom said: "The suspect is believed to have sneaked into the compound at around 2pm on Sunday while the woman and the children were in church.