University student dies by suicide in Githurai, Nairobi

Detectives in Nairobi are investigating the death of a 22-year-old university student who was found dead in her Githurai home, in what police believe was a suicide.

The deceased, identified as Latifa Wangari, a third-year student at Kenyatta University, was discovered in a decomposed state on November 21, days after the incident occurred.

Neighbours reported not seeing her since November 11 and raised the alarm after being disturbed by a foul smell emanating from her house.

Police were called to the scene and gained entry by breaking a metal window.

Authorities said Wangari’s body was found hanging from a window grill, with a scarf tied around her neck.

A note believed to have been written by the student was also recovered.

Preliminary excerpts of the note reportedly read, “I’m sorry but I had to enough and I love you guys.”

Police are investigating the authenticity of the note as part of ongoing inquiries.

The body was moved to a mortuary pending an autopsy and other procedures.

Suicide cases in Kenya have reportedly been on the rise, prompting authorities to step up mental health and awareness campaigns.

The World Health Organization links such cases to factors including unemployment, academic pressure, financial stress, legal difficulties, bullying, previous suicide attempts, family history, substance misuse, depression, and other mental health challenges.

Government efforts are ongoing to address the growing trend.

In a separate tragedy, a ten-year-old boy drowned in a dam while swimming with friends in Nairegie Enkare, Narok County, on November 20.

Police confirmed the boy’s body was recovered and taken to a mortuary, with investigations into the incident ongoing.

Meanwhile, in Mombasa, three police officers were injured in a road traffic accident involving a commuter train.

The Land Rover carrying the officers collided with the train in the Jomvu area while they were en route to a scene of crime.

The officers sustained minor injuries and were taken to a local hospital for treatment, with investigations into the circumstances underway.

These incidents highlight the range of challenges facing Kenyan communities, from mental health crises to accidental deaths and road safety concerns.

Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and report any emergencies promptly, while continuing efforts to raise awareness on mental health and safety.

In a separate incident, police in Kisumu investigated an incident in which a civil engineer died in a suspected case of suicide at the Lake Basin Development Authority (LBDA) mall on Thursday morning, October 30, 2025.

According to police reports, the man reportedly fell from the second floor of the building and was pronounced dead at the scene.

His body was later moved to the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital mortuary for postmortem examination.

Authorities said preliminary findings suggest the man may have taken his own life, but investigations are ongoing to establish the exact circumstances leading to the incident.