Detectives are investigating the death of a 14-year-old girl in Oldonyosabuk, Matungulu, Machakos County, suspected to have resulted from carbon monoxide poisoning.
According to police, the girl’s body was discovered in a closed, poorly ventilated room where she had been alone on Sunday morning. Next to her bed, officers found burnt beans that had boiled overnight on a charcoal jiko. There were no visible injuries on her body, which was later taken to the mortuary.
Authorities suspect carbon monoxide poisoning as the cause of death but have launched further investigations, including speaking with her relatives. The body was moved to Machakos General Referral Hospital for an autopsy and additional examination.
Officials continue to warn against using charcoal jikos in enclosed spaces due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, often referred to as “the silent killer.” The toxic gas, which is odorless and colorless, interferes with oxygen circulation in the body when inhaled, potentially leading to fatal consequences, especially during sleep.
In a separate incident, a 16-year-old boy was found dead in his room in Agulo Kituo village, Mbita, Homabay. Police reported that the boy, a grade nine pupil, was discovered hanging from a roof truss with a rope around his neck. The motive remains unknown, and the body was taken to a local mortuary for an autopsy.
Meanwhile, in Kwambira, Murang’a County, a 44-year-old man, Eliud Ndembu, was found dead in his mother’s kitchen. Police said he had hanged himself using a manila rope attached to the rafters. No physical injuries or suicide note were found at the scene. His body was also moved to the mortuary for further examination as investigations continue.
