Kirinyaga woman found dead amid concern over rising suicide cases

A 40-year-old woman has died by suicide at her home in Kiangai, Kerugoya Ward in Kirinyaga County.

The tragedy occurred while her husband, Jeremiah Muriuki, was away selling bananas at a local market.

According to Area Assistant Chief Joseph Maina, neighbours grew concerned after hearing the couple’s five-month-old baby crying continuously inside the house.

One of the neighbours, Peter Wanjohi, said residents initially thought the woman might have overslept.

“We heard the five-month-old baby crying and became suspicious when there was no response from the house,” he said.

The deceased’s mother-in-law, Peris Wambui, said her daughter-in-law had locked herself inside the house.

Concerned residents later forced their way in after she failed to respond.

Muriuki said he was at Kagio Market when he received the devastating news. “I was informed that my wife, Nancy Muthoni, had taken her own life. I could not believe it.

I am now left wondering how I will cope with our five-month-old baby,” he said.

Residents of Kirinyaga have expressed concern over what they describe as a rise in suicide cases in the region.

A neighbour, Joyce Wanjiru, said the incident was unprecedented in the area. “This is the first time such a case involving a woman has been reported here. Women usually speak out when they are troubled,” she noted.

The body of Nancy Muthoni has been taken to the mortuary pending a postmortem examination, as police continue with investigations.